Future Leaders in Aerospace 2026

Rising Stars in Aerospace 2022 Group Photo

May 15-16, 2026 
University of Colorado Boulder
Aerospace Building
3775 Discovery Dr. 
Boulder, CO 80303

The symposium aims to foster the professional development of future leaders in Aerospace Engineering Sciences. The symposium will offer doctoral candidates and recent PhD recipients who are completing post-doctoral research or working in fields broadly related to aerospace engineering sciences an opportunity to showcase their work. Your PhD does not need to be in aerospace to apply.

Participants will have opportunities to network with colleagues, university faculty, and others in aerospace engineering, engage with mentors, develop community, and gain valuable career skills. We encourage participation from a broad range of individuals, including those that have been under-represented in aerospace, bringing a variety of perspectives and experiences. 

Symposium Sponsors
  • CU Boulder Smead Aerospace
  • MIT Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AeroAstro)
  • Stanford Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics
  • Penn State Department of Aerospace Engineering.

Attendees will:

  • Present their research to their peers and faculty members for feedback.
  • Learn about careers and pathways for success in academic and research positions.
  • Discuss emerging trends in aerospace engineering.
  • Discover what to expect in the academic recruitment process.
  • Talk with diverse faculty members about career choices and work-life balance.

The symposium is supported by the Ann & H.J. Smead Department of Aerospace Engineering Sciences at the University of Colorado Boulder, the MIT Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AeroAstro), the Stanford Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics, and the Penn State Department of Aerospace Engineering.