LaunchPad Center Fellowships

Bridging Talent, Technology and Industry for a Better Tomorrow

About the Program

The LaunchPad Center Fellowships connects students, researchers and industry experts to develop cutting-edge Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) solutions. By combining academic research, industry input and hands-on experience, we equip participants to tackle real-world challenges and create job-generating ventures in Tulsa and surrounding region.

Our Approach: Advancing Innovation Through Multidisciplinary Collaboration

Drones are revolutionizing healthcare, enhancing public safety and solving critical societal problems. Within The Innovation Foundation at OSU, this multi-tiered program combines academic insights, industry expertise and entrepreneurial spirit to empower fellows to develop impactful technologies that address real-world challenges. With a focus on socially responsible and economically viable solutions, the Fellows Program equips participants to shape a more innovative and sustainable future.

By integrating collaboration, industry relevance and workforce development, the LaunchPad Center Fellowships empower participants to shape a more sustainable, innovative and impactful future in Advanced Air Mobility.

Collaborative Research & Innovation

Fellows collaborate with faculty, industry leaders, government and tribal partners on high-impact research.
Projects focus on drone-based urban air mobility, detect-and-avoid technology, autonomous systems and air traffic management.
Cross-disciplinary teamwork spans aerospace engineering, computer science and mechanical engineering.
Research drives practical solutions for the future of advanced air mobility.

Industry-Driven Solutions

Research aligns with industry needs, focusing on commercially viable, high-impact technologies.
Fellows develop working prototypes for real-world testing.
Global partnerships connect Fellows with international experts to advance AAM solutions.

Student Engagement and Workforce Development

Providing real-world AAM experience to graduate, undergraduate and high school senior fellows.
Students complete capstone projects or thesis with industry partners.
Program builds a strong pipeline of skilled professionals for the workforce.

Our Fellowship Programs

The LaunchPad Center Fellowships provides a structured pathway for individuals at different stages of their academic and professional journeys to gain hands-on experience in Advanced Air Mobility (AAM). Our programs offer unique opportunities to develop cutting-edge aerospace solutions, connect with industry leaders and launch impactful careers.

Graduate and Post-Doc Fellows

Launchpad Pioneers Fellowship Application

For graduate students & early-career researchers seeking to lead AAM innovation.

What you will be doing: Conduct multidisciplinary research in areas like drone-based urban air mobility, detect-and-avoid systems, and autonomous air traffic management | Gain access to venture capital networks, business incubators, and legal support to turn research into commercial ventures | Present research at international conferences and collaborate with leading AAM industry experts | Work on government and industry-funded projects that impact the future of aviation.
Undergraduate Fellows

Launchpad Junior Pioneers Fellowship Application

For undergraduate students eager to gain hands-on experience in AAM research and development.

What you will be doing: Collaborate on faculty-led aerospace research projects, focusing on areas like sustainable drone propulsion, unmanned traffic management, and smart city drone applications | Receive mentorship from graduate fellows, industry leaders and faculty experts | Engage in internships, lab research and capstone projects that prepare you for advanced studies or careers in AAM | Attend expert-led seminars on airspace regulations, AAM market trends, and drone applications in various industries.

Join the Future of Aerospace Innovation

No matter where you are in your academic journey, our LaunchPad Center Fellowship provides the tools, mentorship and resources to help you lead the future of Advanced Air Mobility.

Selection Process & Next Steps

1. Application Review – Applications are reviewed for eligibility and alignment with program goals.

2. Interview (if applicable) – Shortlisted candidates may be invited for a virtual interview.

3. Final Selection – Offers are made based on overall fit, experience, and potential for impact.

4. Acceptance & Onboarding – Selected applicants will receive onboarding materials, program details, and next steps!

We’re building something incredible, and your insights matter! Take our Fellowship Stakeholder Survey to help us design opportunities that support emerging leaders in Aerospace.

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