NASA HUNCH (High school students United with NASA to Create Hardware) is an innovative program based at the Johnson Space Center (JSC) in Houston, Texas. This initiative aims to empower and inspire high school students through project-based learning, allowing them to develop 21st-century skills while engaging in the design and fabrication of real-world products for NASA. The program not only enhances students' educational experiences but also provides them with a unique opportunity to contribute to actual NASA missions.
One of the founders of NASA HUNCH is located in the Houston region, emphasizing the program's strong ties to the local community and its commitment to fostering the next generation of aerospace professionals. The Johnson Space Center itself has been a pivotal hub for human spaceflight and exploration for over 60 years, making it an ideal environment for such an impactful educational initiative.
It is a great learning experience, Project work is key
August 2025
HUNCH Program Director
george.j.kessler@nasa.gov
(713) 213-6487
Flight Hardware Project Manager
donald.a.hecker@nasa.gov
(281) 244-2852
Culinary and Nutritional Engineering Project Manager & Biomedical Science and Engineering Project Manager
allison.r.westover@nasa.gov
(281) 898-2486
Design & Prototype Project Manager
glenn.f.johnson@nasa.gov
(281) 755-2823
Flight Configuration Project Manager
donald.m.bennett@nasa.gov
(281) 483-0938
Operations Coordinator – NASA HUNCH
dswanson@nanoracks.com
(832) 205-7908
Machinist Mentor
elroy.bellard-1@nasa.gov
(281) 787-1495