US Navy Introduces Students to STEM Careers Through Virtual Reality
Students at West Mesa High School in Albuquerque were recently given the opportunity to explore advanced naval technology through a virtual reality programme designed to showcase science, technology, engineering, and mathematics careers within the US Navy. The experience allowed students to take part in simulated military environments while remaining on their school campus.
The initiative formed part of the Navy’s Strike Group Mixed Reality Experience, a mobile programme that immerses participants in scenarios reflecting real operational roles. Through a series of challenges, students were introduced to the range of technical and engineering careers available within the naval service, with a focus on teamwork, problem-solving, and applied STEM skills.
The Strike Group programme takes its name from the Navy’s forward-deployed carrier strike groups, which are permanently stationed overseas to support rapid response operations. These units typically consist of around 7,500 personnel and bring together aircraft, ships, and highly trained crews operating across multiple disciplines.
Navy officials said the programme was developed to give students a clearer understanding of life in the service and the technical opportunities it offers. The initiative was launched in late 2024 as part of a broader effort to engage with potential recruits by demonstrating practical applications of STEM education rather than relying solely on traditional outreach methods.
Enlistment has long been viewed as one possible pathway for high school graduates, particularly for those seeking structured training and career development. Navy representatives highlighted that the branch offers a wider range of STEM-related roles than any other part of the US military, allowing service members to develop skills that may later be applied in civilian careers.
The Strike Group experience is built around three interactive scenarios. The first, known as All Hands, places participants on a virtual aircraft carrier flight deck, where they wear a Meta Quest 3 headset and complete tasks linked to aviation operations. The second scenario, Train, introduces students to physically demanding exercises inspired by Navy SEAL training, including push-ups and rope-based challenges. The third, Seek, immerses participants in a submarine mission that requires teams to manage nuclear propulsion systems, sonar operations, and navigational controls.
The programme is fully mobile and can be transported to schools and community events across the country. Navy representatives confirmed that the experience had previously visited Albuquerque during Navy Week in 2024 and returned to the city this year. Recruiters also brought the programme to Cibola High School earlier in the month as part of ongoing outreach efforts.
Officials involved in the initiative said the programme has drawn significant interest nationwide, with hundreds of thousands of participants engaging with the experience since its launch. They noted that the hands-on format has helped prompt conversations with students who may not have previously considered military service or technical careers.
At West Mesa High School, students emerged from the Seek submarine simulation expressing enthusiasm about the experience. Working in teams of four, participants were assigned specific operational roles. Junior student Arianna Ware was responsible for maintaining nuclear propulsion levels to ensure system stability, while senior student Erick Trujillo piloted the submarine’s direction during the exercise.
Both students reported that the All Hands aircraft carrier simulation was their preferred activity, citing the level of detail and realism. They said the programme offered a more in-depth view of Navy life than they had previously encountered.
Ware, who is a member of the school’s Navy Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps, said her interest in military service had been influenced by her grandparents’ prior involvement. She indicated that she was considering future service in either the Navy or the Coast Guard and had a particular interest in mechanical work.
Trujillo, who serves as the public affairs officer for the school’s NJROTC unit, said he had aspired to join the military from a young age. He noted that aspects such as marksmanship and community service were among the areas that appealed to him most.
After completing each simulation, students received brightly coloured patches to mark their participation in the All Hands, Train, and Seek challenges, as well as a final commemorative patch titled Forged By The Sea.
While Trujillo had previously shown interest in joining the US Marines, he said the Navy had become increasingly appealing following the experience. Navy representatives involved in the programme said many students lack a clearly defined career pathway and that initiatives such as Strike Group are intended to provide exposure to structured opportunities.
They also emphasised that military service does not necessarily represent a lifelong commitment, but can offer training, travel, and professional development before individuals transition back into civilian life.
