A Message from the Chair

As The University of Texas at Austin approaches 100 years of aerospace education (originally aeronautical engineering), it is a meaningful time to reflect on the community that has carried ASE/EM forward and the people who will shape its future. 

For nearly a century, generations of students, faculty, alumni and industry partners have contributed to the growth of aerospace at UT Austin. Their work has taken many forms, from research and engineering breakthroughs to mentorship, collaboration and the everyday experiences that help students find their place in the field. 

That sense of community is one of the things I value most about ASE/EM. Our students benefit not only from the expertise of our faculty, but also from the alumni and industry leaders who share their experiences, open doors and invest their time in the next generation. Those connections can have a lasting impact on a student’s education and career. 

As we approach this milestone, we also have an opportunity to think about what the next century of aerospace research and education at UT Austin will look like. The field is changing rapidly, and the challenges ahead will require engineers who are curious, adaptable and willing to work across disciplines. Our responsibility is to give students the foundation, experiences and opportunities they need to meet those challenges. 

This issue of Liftoff offers a glimpse into the people and work that make our department what it is today. I hope you enjoy getting to know some of the faculty, students and alumni who represent our community and seeing the many ways they are contributing to aerospace. 

The future of aerospace will be shaped by the people who are willing to imagine what is possible and turn imagination into reality. I am proud that so many of these people are part of ASE/EM, and excited to see where they take us next. 

Thank you for being part of our community. We are grateful for your continued interest, support and connection to ASE/EM. As always, please keep us informed of your accomplishments, career updates and other news. We are proud to celebrate your success. 

Hook ’em!