Six Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College students are reaching for the stars this year as part of NASA’s Community College Aerospace Scholars (NCAS) program. These driven students have been accepted into various stages of the highly competitive, multi-phase program, which provides unique opportunities to explore careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) through immersive learning experiences with NASA.

The MGCCC students selected include:

• Lam Tran, St. Martin – Computer Science
• William Buice, Waveland – Electrical Engineering
• Tyler Nguyen, Biloxi – Mechanical Engineering (Aerospace Focus)
• Christopher Strunk, Pascagoula – Aerospace Engineering and Foreign Languages
• Riley Ladner, Saucier – Mechanical Engineering
• Zach McNutt, Ocean Springs – Electrical Engineering

Students begin NCAS by completing Mission 1: Discover, then progress through Missions 2 and 3, with the final mission involving an in-person experience at a NASA center. Several MGCCC students have already completed or are actively participating in Mission 2: Explore, with hopes of advancing to the third and final stage.

Lam Tran, a sophomore computer science major, shared, “The best part of this program was collaborating with others and getting to know each of them better. As the project manager, I was able to enhance my leadership and technical skills in such a short time. I’m excited about the possibility of Mission 3 and potentially working with NASA in the future.”

For Tyler Nguyen, a mechanical engineering student, the experience has been equally rewarding. “You really get a taste of what it feels like to be part of a NASA team. Everyone contributes in their own way, and it pushes you to meet high expectations.”

William Buice, now an NCAS alum, added, “Mission 2 was my favorite. I led a team and got to see our hard work come together—it was a great learning experience and gave me real insight into engineering collaboration.”

Christopher Strunk, who is pursuing a dual major in aerospace engineering and foreign languages, said, “Mission 2 just started and I’m already having a blast. This opportunity is shaping my career decisions in meaningful ways.”

Zach McNutt, who just began Mission 2, says his journey to this point has been deeply personal. “I didn’t always see myself as a high-achieving student, but discovering a love for engineering changed everything. NCAS has shown me that there’s a place for people like me in the world of space and science.”

Riley Ladner, who began Mission 1 in January, appreciates how the program combines academic growth with valuable networking. “The best part has been learning from NASA professionals and students from around the country. I’m excited to see where this path leads.”

The NCAS program is designed to inspire and develop the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators. Through virtual simulations, group projects, and hands-on experiences, students are introduced to NASA’s mission and the roles community college students can play in the future of space exploration.

MGCCC continues to foster a strong culture of academic excellence and opportunity in STEM, empowering students to chase big dreams—sometimes even beyond Earth’s atmosphere.