4-H Delivers

Modoc County Aerospace & Rocketry Project

As a matter of face, we are rocket scientists.

The Issue

Young people in the United States are falling behind their peers from other countries in the areas of science, engineering and technology. US college students are choosing not to focus their studies in these areas. US businesses are having difficulty hiring
qualified, capable people to fill positions in these fields.

What has 4-H done?
In accordance with the National 4-H Science, Engineering and Technology initiative, the Providence 4-H Club offered, for the first time, an Aerospace and Rocketry project.  They applied for 4-H Service-Learning RFP funding and received financial assistance to carry out their project.

The Payoff
Twelve 4-H members, ages 9 to 18 years old, learned the types of rockets, history of rockets, the model rocket safety code and the rocketeer’s pledge. They made edible rockets with fruit and learned Newton’s first, second and third laws by participating in hands-on experiments. Through this project, members practiced math, physics, chemistry and electronics while having fun.

“The purpose of this project is to provide members an opportunity to learn a new hobby
that could become a career,” says leader Sherri Johnson.

During project meetings, each participant built a model rocket. Then, the Providence
4-H club invited the community of Adin to a potluck picnic. Before the food was enjoyed, each member launched the rocket they made. After the launch, food was served and project members were available to explain what they learned and answer questions from community members.

When asked about the experience, Nick Shultz said, “It is cool that in our community
we can have added programs beyond our animal projects and that our community supports us.”

“I will always remember being a rocket scientist for a day. It was fun and I enjoyed
sharing the rocket launch experience with our community. I think everyone had a blast,” says Randi Johnson.