Developing Space Talent, Driving U.S. Innovation
At SWFT, we are committed to working together across the space industry, government, and academia to build the most skilled, innovative, and future-ready workforce, ensuring U.S. leadership in space for generations to come.
our story
The space industry faces an urgent workforce challenge—unfilled STEM jobs, an aging technical workforce, and a shortage of skilled talent.
SWFT provides a structured, measurable, and scalable solution through strategic partnerships, hands-on programming, and data-driven talent pipeline development.
SWFT is the premier initiative dedicated to closing the space industry’s growing STEM talent gap while driving the development of a highly skilled, and mission-ready workforce. Powered by leading industry, government, and academic partners, SWFT is structured to INSPIRE, PREPARE, and EMPLOY the next generation of space professionals.
By signing up as a partner, your organization gains a strategic advantage in securing and developing top talent while advancing the U.S. space industry’s leadership for generations to come.
how swft works
SWFT is built on three pillars:
Inspire
Sparking curiosity and passion for space careers through hands-on learning, competitions, and K-12 STEM engagement.
Prepare
Building pathways for students and professionals through internships, apprenticeships, and specialized training that align with industry needs.
Employ
Retaining top talent and expanding workforce capabilities through continuous learning, upskilling, and cross-skilling.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is SWFT?
SWFT is a national initiative dedicated to closing the space industry’s STEM talent gap and ensuring a mission-ready workforce for the future. We bring together industry, government, and academia to INSPIRE the next generation, PREPARE students and professionals with real-world experience, and EMPLOY a skilled, resilient space workforce.
Why was SWFT created?
The space industry faces a critical workforce shortage due to unfilled STEM jobs, an aging technical workforce, and a growing demand for skilled talent. SWFT offers a scalable, data-driven solution to this challenge through strategic partnerships and hands-on programming across all career stages.
Who can partner with SWFT?
We welcome partnerships from companies, educational institutions, nonprofit organizations, government agencies, and community groups committed to growing and sustaining the U.S. space workforce.
What are the benefits of partnering with SWFT?
Partners gain access to:
- A mission-ready talent pipeline
- Workforce development and training programs aligned with industry needs
- Tools to reduce turnover and strengthen employee engagement
- National visibility as a leader in shaping the future space workforce
How can my organization get involved?
Organizations can partner with SWFT by signing the SWFT Pledge, contributing to programming, or collaborating on shared workforce development goals. Fill out the contact form on our website to get started.
Are SWFT programs only for students?
No. SWFT supports talent development at all stages — from K–12 through higher education to professionals already in the field. We focus on long-term workforce readiness and growth.
What Partners Gain
Empowering Partners with Mission-Ready Talent
By working with SWFT, industry partners gain access to a mission-ready talent pipeline, tools to strengthen employee retention, and programs that support continuous workforce development. Our initiatives help companies reduce turnover, close skills gaps, and foster a culture of growth and innovation — all while aligning with national priorities and industry needs.
