The Smead Program

Mission 

The Smead Program develops exceptional scholars and faculty in aerospace to be well-rounded leaders who push the limits of engineering and science innovation to build a better future. Our strong community builds and supports personal and professional growth, leadership, and impact. 

Vision 

The Smead Program is a community where creating lasting leadership and impact in aerospace engineering sciences is paramount. We deliver academic and professional experiences for our scholars and faculty that enable them to become technical and decision-making leaders of today and tomorrow.  

Core Ideals 

The Smead Program consists of scholars and faculty internationally recognized for their research and character. The Smead Program is a strong community who support one another’s continual growth and future goals. Through regular connections with participants, alumni, and leaders in the field, we have built – and continue to grow - a diverse network in the fields of industry, academia, and government. Our scholars, alumni, and faculty are building the future of Aerospace Engineering and Science. 

The Smead Program is focused on leaders who will make an impact that benefits not only the aerospace community, but the future of humanity. The Smead Program is governed by The Smead Program Steering Committee and informed by the Smead Department of Aerospace Engineering Sciences, College of Engineering and Applied Science, and program participants. 

There are five main pillars of The Smead Program that contribute to leadership, impact, and community. 

  1. Scholars 
  2. Faculty Fellows 
  3. Byram Distinguished Visiting Professor 
  4. Smead Chair of Space Technology 
  5. Smead Post-Doctoral Fellow  

Inclusive Excellence in The Smead Program 

The Smead Program is passionate about developing and supporting multifaceted leaders who impact the future through leading diverse teams and growing the culture of justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI) within aerospace engineering and sciences. 

What does it mean to be a Smead Scholar?

  • Full tuition coverage

  • Monthly salary

  • Yearly $5,000 stipend

  • Annual travel stipend

  • Annual research symposium in Vail

  • Access to aerospace industry leaders

  • Professional development and soft skills training

  • Dedicated staff support

Life as a Smead Fellow

 

#1

Public University
in NASA Funding

 

175,000 ft2

Dedicated Aerospace Building
Opened 2019

 

$33.3 M

in New Research
for FY 2023

 

2nd

Largest Aerospace
Economy in USA

 

Shaylah Mutschler

“I’m part of a tight-knit community with a real support system. As Smead Scholars, we’re encouraged to collaborate and offered opportunities to attend workshops and events to explore different areas. We have true cheerleaders in aerospace.”

-Shaylah Mutschler
Smead Scholar, PhD Student