The STARBASE ND program provides 25 hours of hands-on STEAM training to 5th graders on base and within the local community. These students are given a unique opportunity to “engage with positive role models and the technological environment found on [Minot AFB]” (starbasenorthdakota.com).
Effective 16 June 2026, Mrs. Aubrie Ziegler will take over as the STARBASE ND Director. We are lucky to have a prior STARBASE ND instructor as our new Director. She taught in the program for School Years 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 and then left with a heavy heart amid uncertain DoW funding heading into School Year 2025-2026, but remained in North Plains Elementary School to teach third grade.
Mr. Jon Dawson was the prior director and devoted 12 years to the STARBASE ND program on Minot Air Force Base. On June 15th, 2026, the 5th Bomb Wing Commander bestowed a certificate and award to Mr. Dawson for his excellent service.
As we welcome Mrs. Ziegler, I share an exclusive interview:
- Why did you get into the field of education?
For me, education wasn’t a career choice I made in college- “Teacher” was what I answered the first time someone asked me what I wanted to do when I grew up. In fact, by the time I was in first grade, I already had a box tucked away under my bed dedicated entirely to my future classroom. I would collect things I knew I’d need one day—stickers that said ‘Good Job,’ unique stationery, and little notepads that looked like something a teacher would use. My career path never wavered. Being in the classroom is just where I’ve always known I belonged. - Do you have a favorite category/subject or field of science?
Geology has been my favorite for quite some time because it turns the entire planet into an outdoor laboratory and a massive detective story. You aren’t just reading a textbook; you are learning how to read the landscape. When you look at a mountain range or a canyon, geology gives you the ability to see millions of years into the past— and who doesn’t like picking up a cool rock! - What’s your favorite past experience or memory of working with students in STEAM?
Anytime the result is unexpected to the students is memorable. When they are so sure of the outcome, but the result is the opposite, it brings great conversion and surprised faces- bowling balls that float, eggs that survive a crash landings, ugly rocks that hold beautiful crystals inside, those moments of pure surprise are the best. That sudden shift from certainty to wonder is exactly what STEAM is all about. - What started your interest in science and technology?
What really drove my interest in science and technology education was learning in college that many elementary students only get to do one or two full science experiments a year—meaning a true, inquiry-based experience often doesn’t happen until middle school. I wanted to create a classroom where technology and hands-on scientific inquiry are a regular part of our day, not a rare exception. - What is the future of STARBASE ND? In what ways do you plan to improve the program?
I am incredibly fortunate to inherit a program that has been run meticulously well, and with such an exceptional track record of success. As we navigate our way out of an unprecedented year and address some recent funding challenges, my vision for STARBASE ND is focused on keeping up the precedent our program has already set, and modernization. First and foremost, that means getting our team fully staffed and trained. Next, we are actively upgrading our student experience by phasing out older tech. We are bringing in new flight simulator technology and brand-new, just-released robots to give our students hands-on access to the exact tools shaping the modern STEAM workforce. It’s about honoring the program’s strong roots while building a truly futuristic learning environment.
Thank you, Mrs. Ziegler, for taking up the torch! I look forward to working with you as I process monthly payments, complete inventory, and provide marketing/outreach support. More than all that, though, I look forward to seeing the program succeed for many years to come.
The information in this article is provided as a resource and does not constitute endorsement by Minot AFB, the United States Air Force, or the Department of War of the external website, or the information, products, or services contained therein.
The information in this article is provided as a resource and does not constitute endorsement by Minot AFB, the United States Air Force, or the Department of War of the external website, or the information, products, or services contained therein.
