Cerritos College puts students on a NASA-powered path to STEM careers
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 29, 2026
Media Contact: Aya Aoki; Public Relations and Communications
NORWALK, Calif. – January 29, 2026 – Cerritos College is preparing the next generation of STEM leaders through its partnership
with NASA, giving students hands-on aerospace experience that strengthens career readiness,
accelerates transfer, and expands participation in science and engineering.
As part of the NASA Community College Aerospace Scholars (NCAS) program, nearly 40 Cerritos College students took part in a four-day NASA on Campus experience focused on engineering, teamwork, and real-world problem solving. Students designed and tested Mars rover prototypes, managed project budgets, and worked in collaborative teams that mirrored industry and research environments.
Aerospace major Fabian Garsilazo served as a test engineer, helping ensure his team’s rover met mission requirements. “Seeing the dedication and passion of professionals in this field inspired me to push myself and pursue a career in STEM,” Garsilazo said.
Since launching the NCAS program in 2019, Cerritos College has expanded access to
high-impact STEM pathways and increased participation among students across the community.
This year’s cohort is 77 percent Latinx, and participants achieve higher success rates
in STEM courses, complete degrees faster, and transfer to four-year universities at
higher rates than non-participants.
The program has earned national recognition, including its selection as a 2024 Examples of Excelencia finalist, highlighting Cerritos College’s leadership in building equitable, high-wage STEM career pipelines.
Through partnerships with organizations such as NASA, Cerritos College strengthens the regional STEM workforce, expands student opportunities, and positions more graduates for high-demand careers in aerospace, engineering, and technology.
About Cerritos College: Cerritos College serves as a comprehensive community college for southeastern Los Angeles County. Communities within the college’s district include Artesia, Bellflower, Cerritos, Downey, Hawaiian Gardens, La Mirada, Norwalk, and portions of Bell Gardens, Lakewood, Long Beach, Santa Fe Springs and South Gate. Cerritos College offers nearly 300 degrees and certificates in nine divisions. Annually, more than 5,000 students successfully complete their course of studies, and enrollment currently averages 21,000 students. Visit Cerritos College online at www.cerritos.edu.
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