Join the Voyager Club

The CMSC Voyagers are open to students who have finished sixth grade and up. Complete the following steps to apply?​

Step One. Read the Following:

Founded in 1990, the Voyager Club is the heart of the Christa McAuliffe Space Center (CMSC). Whether you are a fan of space science, astronomy, or science fiction, there is a place for you here. Membership is divided into two levels:

•   Explorers: Members who want to be part of the club community but do not work in the simulators.  Some work in our Stageworks Department developing props. Other specialize in costuming.  We have a place for you whatever your interests.  

•   Volunteers: Members who go behind the scenes to help run our simulator missions.  There is a lot of acting in volunteering!  

By applying today, you are requesting an invitation to come do a mission observation to see what we do behind the scenes.  After your observation, you decide if joining the Voyager Club is the right fit for your interests.   

The Purpose of Volunteering

As a volunteer, your primary goal is to create an unforgettable experience for our patrons. While volunteering at the Space Center is incredibly fun, it is also a responsibility. Our mission is to serve the patrons; they aren't here for our entertainment. We look for dedicated individuals who are ready to work hard to keep the "magic" alive for every visitor.

Age Requirements

To apply, you must have completed the 6th grade (there is no upper age limit!). Pro Tip: If you haven't flown many missions as a patron yet, you might want to wait a bit before volunteering. Once you see how the "magic" works behind the scenes, your experience as a passenger changes forever!

Costs and Requirements

Once your application is accepted and you've completed your mission observations, a one time $20 fee applies. This covers your official volunteer T-shirt, lanyard, and administrative costs, and is due at your first scheduled shift.

•   Transportation: Volunteers are responsible for their own travel to and from the Space Center.

•   Background Checks: In accordance with district policy, all volunteers aged 18 and older must pass a mandated background check.

Step Four.  Read the Code of Conduct before your First Mission Observation. 

The Code of Conduct explains the commitment all volunteers make to the Space Center. 

To make sure everyone has a great experience at the Space Center (CMSC), all volunteers are expected to follow these guidelines.  Being a volunteer means representing our core values:  Trustworthiness, Respect, Responsibility, Fairness, Caring, and Citizenship.

• Be Respectful: Treat all staff, youth leaders, and fellow volunteers with kindness.

• Follow the Rules: Obey all CMSC and Alpine School District policies.

• Dress the Part: Follow the Dress & Appearance guidelines for all events.

• Use Proper Language: Keep your communication professional and appropriate.

• Protect the Space Center: Treat the facility and all equipment with care.

• Be Reliable: Be honest, show up on time, and honor your commitments.

• Stay Safe: Weapons, threats, physical force, or overly affectionate/sexual behavior are strictly prohibited.

Communication & Safety

​We want to keep our community safe and transparent. Please follow these communication rules:

• Keep it Public: Use public forums (like Google Classroom) for questions. Avoid private messaging or one-on-one texting between adults and students.

• Socializing with Staff and Volunteers: Adult staff are forbidden to socialize with minors as per school district policy unless it is an Space Center organized event. If anyone asks to meet you privately outside of the Space Center, report it to Mr. Porter or Mr. Williamson immediately.

• Digital Tools: You must be reachable via email and Google Classroom. With parent permission, you may join our Discord for real-time updates (this is optional).

• See Something, Say Something: If you witness bullying, see signs of someone struggling (like suicidal thoughts), or experience any form of abuse, tell Mr. Porter, Mr. Williamson or a staff member right away.

• Note to Parents: While we use tools like Discord and Google Classroom, we cannot monitor every private message. We encourage you to set clear digital boundaries with your student.

Consequences for Breaking the Code

If a volunteer breaks these rules, a staff member will notify the Director and the student's parent/guardian. Depending on the situation, consequences may include:

1. A formal meeting with parents and staff.

2. Being sent home early from a shift.

3. Suspension or restriction from future CMSC events.

4. Ending your membership with the Voyager Club.

5. Paying for any property damage.

6. Involved law enforcement (for serious legal violations).

Now the wait...... 

​Please give the Space Center a few weeks to review your application and arrange your first mission observation.  Please contact Mr. Williamson (VictorWilliamson@AlpineDistrict.org) if you don't receive a mission observation invitation within two weeks of filling out the application.

What Can You Do While You Are Waiting?  

Read the Following Information and Get a Head Start on the Requirements to Join and Volunteer.  

Volunteer & Staff Responsibilities

Grades Come First

Your education is more important than volunteering! To stay active in the simulation rooms, you must:

• Maintain a “B” average overall.

• Have no grades lower than a “C-” on your report card.

If your grades slip, your membership will be moved to the "Explorer" level. This gives you extra time to focus on your studies. You can volunteer once your next grade report shows your grades are back up!

Communication & Scheduling

• Check Your Tech: Check your email and Google Classroom regularly for updates.

• Sign Up: Use our Volunteer App to sign up for flights and camps.

• Transportation: Always get permission from a parent/guardian and ensure you have a ride before signing up for a shift.

Time Commitments

• Monthly Minimum: You are expected to volunteer at least 5 hours per month.  Voyager Club monthly meeting give you two hours.  Attending classes and workshops also count as hours. Some volunteers do their hours at home working on Space Center related projects.

• Leave of Absence: If you can’t volunteer for a while (due to sports, school, or family), just email Mr. Williamson at victorwilliamson@alpinedistrict.org to let him know.

• Be Early: Arrive at least 10 minutes before your shift starts.

• Pick-Up: Ensure your ride is at the Center no later than 20 minutes after your shift ends. Our managers must stay until you are picked up, so please be respectful of their time!

Meetings

We hold monthly Voyager Club meetings, usually on the last Saturday of the month from 8:00–10:00 AM. While not required, we highly recommend attending to level up your skills and hang out with the team.

Uniform & Appearance

We want our crew to look professional. Please follow these dress code rules:

• Shirt: Official CMSC volunteer shirt (clean and tucked in).

• Pants: Solid dark blue or black pants (no shorts, capris, or tight-fitting leggings).

• Shoes: Closed-toe shoes (dark colors are best).

• Personal Items: Cell phones must be turned off and kept in a staff locker. No gum is allowed.

Gear & Equipment

Our costumes and props are expensive! Help us take care of them:

• Ask First: If you aren’t sure if you can use a prop or costume, ask a staff member.

• Clean Up: Put items back exactly where you found them and in good condition.

• Report Damage: If something breaks, don't hide it—tell a staff member immediately so we can fix it.

Control Room Etiquette

The control room is where the "magic" happens. To keep things running smoothly:

• Whisper: Keep conversations quiet so the Flight Director can hear the crew.

• Be a Student: Use your time to watch and learn how the missions work.

• No Food/Drink: Keep snacks and drinks out of the control rooms.

Volunteer Status

If you are unable to meet these responsibilities, you will be moved to the Explorer Group. You can still attend monthly meetings and trainings, but you won't be scheduled for flights. To move back to the Volunteer Group, you will need to contact Mr. Williamson.