Space is Closer Than You Think: Nontraditional Pathways and the Future of STEM

​When most people think about space exploration, they picture rockets, astronauts, and something far removed from everyday life. But space research shapes far more of our world than people realize.

​Join AdaMarie Fellow, aerospace engineer and astronaut-in-training Priya Abiram, alongside STEM advocate and CMO at Star Catcher Camille Bergin, for a conversation about nontraditional pathways into space-related careers, the growing accessibility of the industry, and why the future of exploration needs more kinds of thinkers, builders, and problem-solvers.

​Together, they’ll explore:

• ​What “working in space” actually means today

• ​How STEM students can navigate nontraditional career paths

• ​Why space exploration matters here on Earth

• ​The importance of representation, curiosity, and visibility in STEM

• ​How early-career professionals can position themselves for emerging opportunities in aerospace and beyond

​Whether you’re interested in aerospace or simply trying to figure out where you fit within STEM, this conversation is designed to make the future feel a little more reachable, relatable, and human.