Thanks to the opportunities provided by the NASA HUNCH (High Schools United with NASA to Create Hardware) Flight Configuration program, Cypress Springs STEM Practicum students traveled to the Lone Star Flight Museum on Thursday, April 30, 2026, to present their Galley Table Redesign project.
Throughout the 2025–26 school year, seniors enrolled in the STEM practicum class worked on redesigning the galley table model used on the space station; a multisided, expandable table that is used for both personal and professional purposes. Divided into two teams, our seniors were tasked with creating a version that was lighter, stronger, and easier to transport while maintaining full functionality. Their designs followed aerospace regulations and invited them to incorporate features they believed would benefit both manufacturers and astronauts.
“This program has contributed so much to my growth,” senior Brett Mantle said. “It’s taught me how to work with a team, solve problems, and stay patient. I was also able to learn more about Inventor (Computer drafting software) and the importance of communication on projects like these.”
During the visit, students not only explored the museum but also presented their projects to judges and representatives from other schools. This experience helped them gain new perspectives and strengthened their ability to collaborate—not only with their Cy Springs peers but also with students from other campuses.
“Flight Configuration really pushed us to finish the project and secure our presentation trip to the museum,” senior Satiel Cruz said. “Competing with the other team motivated us to improve, and I feel like I can continue growing and finish building my portfolio.”
In addition to presenting, students had the opportunity to speak with industry professionals and NASA engineers, gaining valuable insight and advice to help them grow as drafters, designers, and newcomers into the engineering industry.
Timothy Smith, Christian Jack, Kaden Crowder, Ryan Catina and Satiel Cruz represent
Cy Springs at the NASA HUNCH event. These students worked to create a product actually used
on the Space Station.
“The opportunity to talk to NASA engineers was inspiring and a great learning experience,” Mantle said. “I received a lot of feedback and learned how to improve my work. It really helped me set higher expectations for myself.”
Students expressed gratitude for the experience and plan to continue refining their designs and improving their techniques during the remainder of the school year alongside their instructor, Mr. Marcus, who has guided them since the beginning of the project.
“Mr. Marcus was the one who introduced me to this program,” senior Bryce Price said. “I was in a lower-level engineering class, and he encouraged me to join HUNCH. This experience has been an incredible opportunity to make connections, meet new people, gain insight, and develop my teamwork and communication skills. I’m grateful for it, and I know it will help me in my future education.”
