EarthRISE Developers Academy: A Gateway to NASA Science and Technology Careers

The EarthRISE Developers Academy offers a unique opportunity for students and early-career professionals to gain hands-on experience with NASA data. This program aims to cultivate the next generation of leaders in science and technology by immersing participants in projects that tackle real-world issues. By combining applied research with professional development, the Academy bridges Earth science with the future of space exploration, preparing individuals for demanding roles in the growing geospatial workforce.

What is the EarthRISE Developers Academy?

The EarthRISE Developers Academy is a program designed by NASA to foster innovation and leadership in Earth science and technology. It builds on over 25 years of workforce development experience from NASA’s Langley Research Center. The Academy focuses on short-term applied research projects where participants use NASA data to create solutions for partners. These partners can be from state, local, tribal, territorial, or private sectors. The goal is to help these partners make better, more efficient decisions.

Through collaborative projects, participants develop essential skills. These include communication, presentation, research, and teamwork. They also gain technical capabilities and build valuable professional networks. The program also includes activities like personality typing and team building, offering direct interaction with scientists and partner organizations. This holistic approach ensures participants are well-prepared for the challenges and demands of the current geospatial job market.

Benefits of Participating

The EarthRISE Developers Academy provides significant benefits for personal and professional growth. Participants can expect to see improvements in their communication and presentation abilities, as they will be expected to share their research findings. The program emphasizes research skills, teaching participants how to effectively use NASA data to solve problems. Collaboration is a key component, allowing individuals to learn how to work effectively in teams with diverse backgrounds and expertise.

Beyond these core skills, the Academy offers opportunities to enhance technical capabilities, particularly in areas related to Earth science, geographic information systems (GIS), and remote sensing. Networking with experienced scientists and professionals from partner organizations is another major advantage, potentially opening doors to future career opportunities. The inclusion of personality typing and team-building exercises helps participants understand themselves and others better, fostering stronger working relationships. Ultimately, the Academy aims to equip individuals with the practical experience and soft skills needed to excel in the rapidly expanding geospatial workforce.

Eligibility Requirements

To be considered for the EarthRISE Developers Academy, applicants must meet several criteria. First, candidates must be at least 18 years old by the start of the program term. A demonstrated background in Earth and environmental sciences, geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing, or computer science is required. Applicants must also hold U.S. citizenship or Legal Permanent Resident (LPR) status, as this is a requirement for all opportunities, whether in-person or virtual.

Academically, applicants need a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, calculated from their current or most recent institution. The program requires a commitment of 25 to 29 hours per week for the entire term, during standard business hours. For those applying for in-person positions, the ability to provide personal transportation to the Academy location is necessary. Virtual participants must reside and work within the 50 U.S. states or Washington, D.C. for the duration of the program; remote work from U.S. territories or outside the U.S. is not permitted.

Other Important Considerations

While the core eligibility criteria are important, the Academy also looks for specific qualities in its applicants. Individuals with proven skills in Earth, environmental, or planetary sciences, remote sensing, GIS, and computer science are strongly encouraged to apply. The program is interdisciplinary, welcoming participants from various fields and career stages, including current students, recent graduates, early-career professionals, and those looking to transition careers. Success in the Academy often depends on being open-minded, enjoying teamwork, being flexible, and possessing a genuine eagerness to learn new things. These attributes contribute to a positive and productive learning environment for everyone involved.

How to Apply

The application process for the EarthRISE Developers Academy is straightforward. Interested individuals can find the application link on the Opportunity Desk website or through NASA’s official EarthRISE Developers Academy page. The deadline for applications is June 26, 2026. It is advisable for applicants to carefully review all eligibility requirements and program details before submitting their application to ensure they meet all necessary qualifications. The application portal is designed to guide candidates through the submission process, collecting necessary information about their background, skills, and motivations for joining the Academy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main goal of the EarthRISE Developers Academy?

The program aims to cultivate future leaders in science and technology by providing hands-on experience with NASA data and tackling real-world issues.

What kind of skills will participants gain?

Participants will develop communication, presentation, research, teamwork, and technical skills, particularly in Earth science, GIS, and remote sensing.