Who We Are

The Meteor Crater Education Alliance (MCEA) is a Northern Arizona–based nonprofit founded in November 2022 to bring engaging, hands-on STEM learning to K–12 students and teachers—especially in rural and underserved communities.

Inspired by the scientific significance of Meteor Crater, MCEA creates meaningful learning experiences through school outreach, field trips, science camps, teacher workshops, live demonstrations, and special events. All programs are designed to make science approachable and exciting while supporting Arizona Science Standards and Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS).

By connecting students with real scientific practices, educators, and exploration, MCEA helps spark curiosity, expand opportunity, and open pathways to future STEM learning and careers.

Our Inspiration

Rising from the high plains of Northern Arizona, Meteor Crater has inspired wonder for thousands of years. Native peoples have long recognized this landscape as a powerful place shaped by forces from the sky, grounding stories, observation, and respect for the natural world.

That sense of wonder carried forward through science. Daniel Barringer remained resolute in his belief that the crater was formed by a meteorite, a claim later confirmed by pioneering planetary geologist Eugene Shoemaker. Their work transformed our understanding of impact science and reshaped how we explore other worlds.

Meteor Crater has since served as a training ground for astronauts and a natural laboratory for scientists and engineers preparing for exploration beyond Earth. The Meteor Crater Education Alliance draws inspiration from this legacy—connecting ancient knowledge, scientific discovery, and human curiosity to inspire the next generation of explorers, thinkers, and innovators.

 Our Mission

Inspiring the dreamers, thinkers, and creators of tomorrow to explore the frontiers of science and engineering.

Our Vision

Empowering every child to pursue their dreams and make a meaningful impact on the world.

Our Values

Inspiration

We inspire students to pursue STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) by creating engaging, hands-on experiences that ignite curiosity and passion.

 Inclusivity

We are committed to providing equitable opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds, ensuring all have access to quality STEM education and experiences.

 Community Engagement

We actively bridge the divide between the scientific community and students, families, and educators, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose.

 Collaboration

We believe in the power of teamwork and collaboration, fostering partnerships that enhance our programs and extend our reach and impact.

 Experiential Learning

We champion a diverse range of learning experiences, including project-based learning, informal education, online experiences, immersive exhibitions, and field studies, to provide comprehensive and impactful STEM education.

 Real-World Application

We showcase real-world applications and opportunities in STEM fields, encouraging students to envision and pursue careers in these areas.

 Support and Development

We support teachers with professional development opportunities and resources, empowering them to enhance their STEM instruction.

 Mentorship and Role Models

We provide mentorship and role models in STEM fields, offering guidance and inspiration to support students in their educational journey.

 Innovation

We encourage creativity and ingenuity, challenging students to think outside the box and develop innovative solutions to complex problems.

 Sustainability

We promote sustainability and environmental stewardship through our programs, emphasizing the importance of protecting our planet for future generations.