PALMDALE, Calif., Dec. 4, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- High-school students took a virtual field trip today to Lockheed Martin Skunk Works where they learned about five advanced technology developments being pioneered by the Lockheed Martin engineers and scientists, or "skunks," who work there. The virtual learning experience was designed to introduce students to the exciting work a career in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) can offer.

"STEM education is critical to America's national security and economy – without the right technical talent, we risk losing our competitive advantage," said Jeff Babione, vice president and general manager of Skunk Works. "Technology companies like Lockheed Martin play an important role in helping to inspire and encourage the next generation of technical talent. With our Generation Beyond program, we're challenging high school students to think differently, take risks, innovate and collaborate – skills that are necessary to succeed in a fast-moving, global high-tech economy."

The virtual field trip is part of Generation Beyond, Lockheed Martin's free digital STEM education program used in thousands of U.S. classrooms. Launched in 2016 in partnership with Discovery Education, a global leader in standards-based digital content for K-12 classrooms, Generation Beyond puts students in the shoes of scientists and engineers to tackle real-world technology challenges and demonstrate the exciting work that a STEM education and career can offer.

In addition to developing career-focused STEM education programs like Generation Beyond, Lockheed Martin has also invested $50 million in tax-reform savings to fund STEM scholarships and additional education initiatives, as well as $100 million to ensure our existing employees are prepared for jobs of the future through education and training opportunities.

About Lockheed Martin:
Headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland, Lockheed Martin is a global security and aerospace company that employs approximately 100,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. This year, the company received three Edison Awards for groundbreaking innovations in autonomy, satellite technology and directed energy. Learn more at www.lockheedmartin.com.

SOURCE Lockheed Martin