Ambassador International Academy Unveils Sky Lab with NASA's Dr. Don Thomas

Dubai, UAE, 18 November 2025: Ambassador International Academy (AIA) proudly launched its cutting-edge Sky Lab, hosted by four-time NASA astronaut Dr. Don Thomas, in an event that epitomizes the academy’s dedication to revolutionary STEM education.

The Sky Lab serves as an advanced educational environment aimed at motivating future pilots, scientists, and engineers. Dr. Thomas interacted with students from various grades through engaging briefings and dialogues. Learners discovered educational pathways, degree options, and the latest trends within the global aerospace industry, acquiring essential knowledge relevant to the dynamic field.

This new facility is part of AIA’s mission to connect theoretical learning with practical applications. Renowned for its Robotics & AI Lab, Product Design Studio, Graphic Design & Multimedia Lab, and Rapid Prototyping Lab, the Sky Lab enhances the school's goal of providing innovative, experiential education. Its curriculum includes STEMPilot learning, which encompasses drone operation, rocket construction, and virtual reality explorations in the Metaverse.

Central to Sky Lab is the STEMPILOT Edustation Simulator, which revolutionizes learning environments into interactive cockpits. Students can practice STEM concepts through real-time aviation simulations covering areas such as flight training, instrument operations, cross-country navigation, meteorological studies, radio telephony, and air traffic control. This simulator follows NGSS standards, fostering critical thinking, collaborative skills, and a zest for STEM disciplines.

James Lynch, Principal of AIA, stated, “The Sky Lab marks a significant milestone in our quest to inspire the innovators of tomorrow. By merging aviation, space science and cutting-edge technologies, we are empowering students with the tools and mindset needed to thrive in an ever-changing world.”

Iain Colledge, Managing Director of Bridge Education, added, “This Sky Lab initiative is aligned with the UAE’s Education 33 agenda, reflecting the nation’s progressive stance on educational reform. Through innovative and inquiry-based experiences, AIA fosters globally aware learners prepared to seize remarkable university opportunities worldwide.”

Dr. Don Thomas expressed his enthusiasm for the students: “It’s a privilege to be part of this milestone at AIA. The Sky Lab ignites a passion for learning and exploration in young minds. The future of space exploration depends on the imagination and tenacity of today’s students — and I see that potential here.”

Dr. Thomas, with a PhD in Materials Science from Cornell University, has accumulated over 1,040 hours in space through four missions on Space Shuttles Columbia and Discovery. He has held significant positions at NASA’s Johnson Space Center and served as Director of Operations at Russia’s Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center.

Ambassador International Academy remains at the forefront of delivering innovative, inclusive, and globally applicable education. The Sky Lab exemplifies the school’s commitment to equipping students for future challenges and opportunities, cultivating curiosity, creativity, and essential skills for the next generation of explorers and innovators.