BRESLAU, Ontario, 23 April 2013. Lockheed Martin (NYSE:LMT) has provided a visual simulation platform that creates training scenarios across aviation, maritime, and ground domains to Breslau's Cadet Youth Development Centre, home to the 822 Tutor Squadron of the Royal Canadian Air Cadets.
The Prepar3D simulation platform is designed to encourage youth to explore science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) through an immersive learning environment.
Powered by game-based technology, Prepar3D presents a virtual reality platform that supports immersive learning scenarios from deep underwater to suborbital space. Military and civilian professionals currently train with Prepar3D individually and collectively during distributed training exercises.
The charity offers free access to aerospace and robotics programs for cadets and youth aged 12 to 18 years. The Centre’s Introduction to Aerospace Through Simulation program engages participants in aviation-based tasks where they build teamwork, leadership, and resource management skills while experiencing STEM principles in action.
"When our cadets get in the simulators, they are entirely attuned to the task and to their teammates," says Lt. Col. Ronald Gowing (Ret.), founder and program director of the Cadet Youth Development Centre. "The simulation program empowers youth to take control of their futures by cultivating self-assurance that they can excel in math and the sciences."
"Simulation technology provides boundless opportunity for engaging youth in learning about STEM disciplines, and we are honored to support the Cadet Youth Development Centre in that mission," notes Jon Rambeau, vice president of Lockheed Martin Training and Logistics Solutions. "Many of our own employees have pursued technical careers because of encouragement and experiences they had during their youth."
More than 300 young people participate each year in the Cadet Youth Development Centre's programming. The Centre's aerospace facility is the only cadet facility of its kind in Canada. Additional community aviation and aerospace programs are made available to local schools, scouts, guides, and other youth-oriented organizations.