Partner with Us
Historically, NSF SOARS has focused on preparing students for academic and research careers. The program is expanding its scope to intentionally engage with the private sector. We are partnering with professionals across our network to identify workforce-relevant skills often underemphasized in traditional academic training and provide students with unique, private-industry perspectives.
Partnership Outcomes
With private-sector partnerships, NSF SOARS aims to bridge traditional research training and real-world applications. Our goal is to prepare Proteges for success across a full range of workplace settings while supporting professional identity formation early in their careers. These partnerships also foster meaningful collaboration among academia, government, and industry to benefit society and the U.S. economy.
Partnership Benefits
Partnering with NSF SOARS is a unique opportunity to shape the next generation of Earth system sciences talent. You will gain access to emerging professionals, influence skill development to align with your industry needs, and demonstrate your organization's commitment to workforce development.
The NSF SOARS team will manage student recruitment, selection, logistics, communications, mentorship connections, and evaluation. Our program is well established, awarded, and respected. Read more about our legacy and impact on our History page.
Ways to Engage
There are several ways you can participate with NSF SOARS:
Host a Protege for a summer externship within your organization.
First access to top candidates before the open market.
Provide a professional mentor to an NSF SOARS Protege.
Build a direct relationship with emerging scientists at no financial cost.
Co-brand NSF SOARS events, such as the end-of-summer research colloquium and summer student conference.
Put your brand in front of the next generation of Earth system scientists.
Participate in resume workshops, interview preparation, career panels, or facility visits.
Position your organization as a destination for early-career scientists.
Contribute to program planning, operational stability, enhanced recognition, and a deeper relationship with the program.
Learn more about these options in the NSF SOARS Corporate Partnership Program document.
Get In Touch
Find the right track for your organization
Tell us about your organization and what you're looking for. Our team will follow up within two business days to discuss fit and next steps. There is no commitment required at this stage.
Prefer a conversation first? You can also reach us directly or schedule a call at a time that works for you.
Email: soars@ucar.edu
Schedule a 30-min intro call
Download the Corporate Partnership Overview (PDF)