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LAUNCH. A Vocational Training Program Giving Youth A Dynamic Future in the Engineering and Science Professions. Our Commitment.
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LAUNCH A Vocational Training Program Giving Youth A Dynamic Future in the Engineering and Science Professions
Our Commitment The U.S. Small Business Administration's HUBZone program is designed to revitalize communities by increasing employment opportunities and investment in distressed and historically underutilized areas around the country. GeoControl Systems, Inc. (GCS) is committed both financially and morally to the amelioration of the social and financial conditions of these neglected inner-city communities and residents.
LAUNCH In the greater Houston area, there are too few individuals with engineering and science backgrounds relative to the demand for these skills. Among the major metropolitan areas in our country, Houston is not alone in this regard. Recently, officials in Houston representing both the energy and aerospace industries have brought attention to this shortage. We submit that there is a definite need to cultivate in our youth an interest in math and science studies, and reverse the trend of declining student enrollment in math and science coursework at the college level. “Launch” is an educational outreach and work study program offered by GeoControl Systems, Inc. (GCS). This program motivates high school students to pursue college level studies in engineering and science disciplines by providing relevant training, employment, and scholastic assistance. Since GCS provides engineering support services to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), this program also inspires students to consider careers in the aerospace industry.
LAUNCH The reasons to support and carry out the “Launch” program are found in the activities adopted by GCS in its business management policy. For example, as Houston’s inner-city high school students are targeted as applicants for “Launch”, this program will help to revitalize the communities where GCS employees live and work. In addition, “Launch” will help to improve the lives of GCS employees including the lives of the employees directly participating in the program. Lastly, since “Launch” encourages the pursuit of math and science coursework, this program will aid in increasing the number of young men and women graduating from college with degrees in engineering and science disciplines. Because NASA programs require contributions from individuals with these forms of education, the “Launch” program will assist GCS in it efforts to improve the overall performance of its customers.
LAUNCH Eligibility Requirements (Note: Some are rules while others are conditions of employment) • Students must reside in HUBZone designated areas. • Students must be in either the 11th or 12th grade. • Students must be US citizens. • Students upon receipt of an offer to participate in the program must pass a drug test. (This will also include random screening). • Students must work a total of 10 hours per week. • Students must be able to provide their own transportation to and from school/worksite. • Students must possess a strong academic record. This includes a demonstrated interest in math and science studies as evidenced by their school transcript. • In their senior year students must attend at least two college career fairs. • Students must volunteer in at least one community service project per year. • Students must attend the summer program in order to be eligible for the following semester. Students will Compete to be Part of the Project
LAUNCH Rules for Onsite Participation Students must maintain a B average while in the program Students must meet the eligibility requirements for the program through out their course of participation Students must not be disruptive in the classroom and follow the same class room standards as described in the school’s policy. Students who are working on GCS property must follow the guidelines as described in the GCS policy manual. Students missing training/work for three or more consecutive or cumulative days without approved absence whether concurrent or cumulative will be terminated from the program Students who have been terminated from the program will not be readmitted. Dress for the program is always business casual, which includes beige “kacky” slacks and white dress shirt. Students in entire school uniform are permitted to wear that uniform during the training/work segment.
LAUNCH Meet the Instructor Dr Nghia Le is a successful teacher of over ten years at both the collegiate and High School levels. He received a Ph.D in Organic Chemistry from the University of Alberta (Canada) and an MBA from Our Lady of the La