The tagline “Bringing the possibility of space to kids everywhere” captures the heart of SpaceKids Global’s mission, a visionary nonprofit dedicated to inspiring the next generation of space enthusiasts and innovators. Founded by Sharon Hagle, SpaceKids Global aims to ignite curiosity about space exploration and STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) among children worldwide, particularly those from underserved and underrepresented communities.
Sharon Hagle’s Vision
Sharon Hagle, a passionate advocate for space education, has long believed that inspiring young minds to explore the universe not only fuels their imagination but also empowers them to dream big and solve problems. She founded SpaceKids Global to make the vast possibilities of space exploration accessible to young people everywhere.
Why Space Matters for Kids
She believes that space exploration can serve as a powerful tool to inspire young people to engage with STEM subjects. By seeing space as something achievable and within their reach, children are encouraged to develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork skills—all essential qualities in today’s rapidly evolving world.
Sharon Hagle has been quoted saying that space is not just for astronauts and scientists; it’s for everyone. This sentiment underscores the organization’s commitment to democratising access to space-related learning and experiences. SpaceKids Global offers hands-on activities, space camps, and educational initiatives, allowing kids from diverse backgrounds to experience space science and its potential impact on Earth’s future.
Empowering a Diverse Generation
One of the central goals of SpaceKids Global is to diversify the space industry. Historically, the space sector has lacked representation from women and marginalised groups. By providing young girls and kids from various socio-economic backgrounds with exposure to space careers, Sharon Hagle hopes to level the playing field and inspire a future where anyone—regardless of gender, race, or background—can contribute to the space community.
The programs aim to make space accessible not only physically but also intellectually, through resources, mentorship, and exposure to the broad array of careers in space exploration—ranging from engineering and technology to policy and design.
A Shared Commitment to Empowerment
Sharon emphasises that their mission is rooted in the belief that empowering children through the wonders of space will spark a lifelong interest in exploration, science, and innovation. The work of SpaceKids Global focuses on more than just technical skills; it’s about nurturing a mindset that encourages curiosity, resilience, and problem-solving. In today’s ever-changing world, these skills are more crucial than ever, and space exploration is a natural and inspiring way to teach them.
Here Women Love Tech caught up with both Sharon to discover more.

Sharon Hagle
What inspired you to found SpaceKids Global and what are some of the organization’s biggest achievements to date?
Three things inspired me to create SpaceKids Global. International Educational Index indicates the US is 38 in Math and 41 in science out of 71 countries. There are 3.5 million job vacancies in the STEM field predicted by 2025.
Dr. Michio Kaku said, “If you don’t have kids hooked on math and science by age and 7 you’ll lose them”. And, Virgin boss Richard Branson said, “ If your dreams don’t scare you, they are too small”.
Our tagline is “Bringing the possibility of space to Kids everywhere”, we’ve now reached over 867,000 kids around the world. Our goal is “Making learning fun again” by providing hands-on-projects.
Our biggest achievements; include sending 21 science projects to the International Space Station in partnership with Girl Scouts of America.
The National Essay Competition on “Why I Want to Go to Space?”
With our partnership with Zero G, the two winners experienced a Zero-G flight.
SpaceKids Press Squad where we had 8 kids selected out of 1100 students where all 50 US states participated in a national drawing to report on our upcoming Blue Origin launch from Kennedy Space Center (KSC). Seven of the 8 kids have never been to KSC.
We also helped change the message …..Elementary kids think the only job in the space industry is an Astronauts. Space is for everyone…..what jobs we have on Earth, we’ll need in space.
How do you envision your new role as Board Chair and strategic advisor contributing to the future success of SpaceKids Global?
As Board Chair, I will focus on developing a National Board of Directors with expertse in the STEAM fields. We will help develop the long-term strategic plan for the organization ensuring financial sustainability. I will serve as a support system for Maryann and the team to grow the capacity of SpaceKids Global’s reach and programs.
In your opinion, what are the most critical factors in encouraging young girls to pursue careers in aerospace and technology?
Working with Purdue University as a member of the Engineering Advisory Council, we need to address several critical factors to ensure their engagement and success.
1. Early Exposure to STEM subjects through hands-on-experiences
2. Mentorship programs and engaging activities
3. Creating a supportive environment and inclusivity, diversity, and gender equality
4. Highlighting successful female role models and their contribution
5. Educational scholarships
6. Promoting empowerment, encouragement and equal opportunities
What advice would you give to other women who are looking to make a significant impact in the field of STEAM education?
Network and collaboration
Mentorship
Passionate and persistent
Continuous learning
Encourage diversity and inclusivity
Innovate and think creatively
Promote STEM awareness
More About SpaceKids Global
SpaceKids Global By helps introduce children to the exciting possibilities of space, and by doing so is helping to shape the next generation of thinkers, explorers, and innovators.
Find out more about SpaceKids Global, here!