How Nextage is Powering the Future of STEM: Our Visit to Arizona State University and the Educate to Innovate Conference

Last week, Nextage had the unique opportunity to engage with Arizona’s leading STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) innovators at Arizona State University (ASU) and to showcase our upcoming NextMAG product at the Educate to Innovate Conference hosted by Arizona Science Center. It was a powerful week filled with discovery, meaningful conversations, and some truly magnetic moments.

From exploring NASA technologies to meeting the next generation of engineers, our visit was a reminder of how impactful real-world STEM engagement can be for students, educators, and companies alike.

Exploring Space Innovation at the School of Earth and Space Exploration

Our journey began at the ASU School of Earth and Space Exploration (SESE), a national leader in space science, planetary research, and exploration technology. We toured the Gallery of Exploration, an immersive space showcasing the tools, technologies, and art developed by SESE and its programs. A highlight of the tour was getting an up-close look at the facilities used to build and test NASA mission instruments like the E-THEMIS thermal camera aboard NASA’s Europa Clipper spacecraft.

As we explored everything from their thermal vacuum chamber to an interactive life-size model of the NASA Psyche spacecraft suspended above the gallery floor, it became clear that Arizona State University is a hub for students pursuing careers in aerospace, planetary science, and space-focused research.

Connecting with Future Engineers at the Fulton Schools of Engineering Career Fair

*Nextage team member Dean Bushong shares career insights with Arizona State University Fulton Engineering students at the Fulton Engineering Fall 2025 Career Fair. Photo Credit: Brooke Owen*

At the ASU Fulton Schools of Engineering Career Fair, we had the chance to meet and speak with hundreds of talented ASU engineering students across disciplines ranging from aerospace engineering to computer science. It was a chance not only to engage with top-tier students, but to show how companies like Nextage can play a role in shaping the next generation of engineers.

We were inspired by their curiosity, ambition, and eagerness to make an impact. It was a reminder of the critical role that industry partnerships play in the STEM workforce development pipeline.

Student Engineers Creating Real-World Impact at Luminosity Lab

We visited the Luminosity Lab, ASU’s interdisciplinary student-led lab where teams work on real-world challenges in health, sustainability, technology, and space exploration. Students here aren’t just learning–they’re leading.

From advanced prototyping to product design and development, this group demonstrates what’s possible when engineering, entrepreneurship, and design converge in a collaborative environment. By supporting these teams, Luminosity Lab serves as a model for how academic institutions can empower students to lead impactful research and development projects.

Fueling the Future of Space Exploration, One Slice at a Time

*Arizona State University students enjoyed pizza while learning about Nextage from Bob Vernot and Dean Bushong. Photo Credit: Brooke Owen*

To wrap up our time at ASU, we hosted a STEM networking pizza party inside the Interplanetary Lab, a student-led laboratory that supports the life cycle of CubeSat missions. This dynamic environment is dedicated to advancing space exploration technologies and preparing students with the skills needed to make an impact in the workforce upon graduation.

During the event, we connected with members of the Sun Devil Satellite Laboratory, a student club working on real satellite missions out of the Interplanetary Lab. It was the perfect setting to spark meaningful conversations about technology, space exploration, and the path from classroom to industry–and of course, it wouldn’t be a proper networking event without pizza.

Engaging Arizona Educators with NextMAG at the Educate to Innovate Conference

*Nextage’s Educate to Innovate Conference display with the inaugural presentation of NextMAG magnetometer and educational curriculum. Photo credit: Glee Vernot*

One of the biggest highlights of our week was participating in the Educate to Innovate Conference at the Arizona Science Center, a statewide event bringing together educators, researchers, and industry partners to explore the latest tools and ideas in STEM education.

We were proud to unveil a sneak preview of NextMAG, our in-development magnetometer and educational curriculum pairing designed to make magnetic field measurement accessible, affordable, and engaging. Attendees got hands-on experience with our prototypes and left with ideas on how to integrate magnetic science into classrooms, labs, and outreach programs.

Whether in a university lab or a middle school science class, NextMAG brings magnetic exploration to life–and it’s just getting started.

NextMAG is currently in development. Sign up to be the first to know when it launches:

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Why STEM Outreach and University Partnerships Matter

We left Arizona energized by what we saw, and even more driven to push the boundaries of what’s possible in STEM education and space exploration. Our visit reinforced the importance of outreach, hands-on learning, and strong university-industry partnerships. When companies, educators, and students come together, we create opportunities that lead to real-world impact.

We’re more inspired than ever to continue building innovative learning tools; engaging young engineers; and contributing to a more connected, curious, and capable world. From supporting student CubeSat missions, to increasing access to high-quality STEM curriculum with tools like NextMAG, Nextage is committed to driving the future of education and technology both on Earth and in space.

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