Empowering Future Leaders: Project Next’s Visit to Viasat


At Project Next, we are committed to providing students with real-world experiences that foster growth and innovation. Recently, our students had the exciting opportunity to visit Viasat, a global communications company, where they gained firsthand insights into the world of technology and communications. This visit expanded their knowledge and gave them a unique opportunity to engage with industry professionals, preparing them for future careers in STEM fields.

Technology and Innovation: A Key Takeaway

A highlight of the visit was the exploration of Viasat’s cutting-edge technology. Students were introduced to the company’s work in satellite communication and internet connectivity, learning how these technologies are used to bridge the digital divide worldwide. The visit offered a comprehensive look at how satellite systems operate and the impact of connectivity in remote regions. This experience gave students a clearer understanding of the real-world applications of the technology they learn about in the classroom, inspiring them to consider careers in the tech industry.


The hands-on demonstrations and interactive discussions with Viasat engineers provided students with valuable knowledge about the future of technology, including advancements in satellite systems and cybersecurity. The visit highlighted the vast range of opportunities available in the tech world and encouraged students to think critically about how they could contribute to the next wave of innovation.

Building Confidence Through Professional Engagement

In addition to the technical knowledge gained, students benefited from the opportunity to connect with professionals at Viasat. The visit exposed them to various career paths within the tech industry, from engineering to product development and leadership roles. Hearing from Viasat professionals gave students valuable insights into how they can pursue their own career goals.

September 18, 2026
In September of 2023, Project Next officially began a new chapter. And in honor of our third birthday, we thought there was no better time to tell the story of how we got here. The truth is, our story started long before there was a Project Next. It began with a young woman growing up in a low-income, single-parent household who would become the first in her family to attend college. College felt foreign, and the path forward was anything but clear. But one high school counselor believed in her, helped her see possibilities she could not yet see for herself, and changed the course of her life. That young woman was our founder and Executive Director, Lisa Stout.
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