Three undergraduate UCCS students from the Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Department displayed their pioneering research at an international conference held during the week of January 6–10, 2025. These future aerospace leaders presented papers at the prestigious American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) SciTech Conference in Orlando, Florida. Accompanying them was Lynnane George, Ph.D., associate professor, who underscored the significance of this unique opportunity for students to engage with the innovative developments in the aerospace industry.
Evan Martin, junior in Aerospace Engineering, presented “From Philosophy to Practice: Implementing Ethical Imperatives and Engineering Feasibility for Long-Duration Spaceflight.” Martin’s work explored the integration of ethical decision-making and technical feasibility to address challenges in sustaining human life on long-term space missions.
Together, Josiah Rothwell, senior in Mechanical Engineering, and Noor Yousuf, senior in Aerospace Engineering, presented two papers: “Space Elevator Applications: Automated Asteroid Selection and Efficiency Analysis” and “Technical Analysis of a Ceres-Bound Space Elevator for Asteroid Mining.” Their research delved into the futuristic realm of space elevators, offering innovative solutions for asteroid mining, and advancing humanity’s reach into deep space.
The students were enthusiastic about the experience.
Josiah Rothwell said, “SciTech and our own UCCS AIAA branch have given me the chance to build industry connections and learn from both peers and seasoned aerospace engineers. It’s been a valuable experience that has helped me see the field in new ways.”
Noor Yousuf agreed, adding “attending SciTech was a very unique and fruitful experience as it allowed me to share and receive ideas with industry experts and students alike.”
Reflecting on the students’ work, George said, “These students are outstanding scholars and researchers at UCCS, and I am confident they will become leaders in the aerospace industry. It’s an incredible privilege to collaborate with such talented students and professionals.”
George brought her enthusiasm and experience to the conference, sharing insights during an AIAA Faculty Advisor Engagement Panel alongside colleagues from the University of Dayton, Boston University, and Georgia Tech. She highlighted her strategies for keeping the UCCS AIAA student branch motivated and thriving. Also, at the "Meet the Universities" session, George connected with prospective students eager to learn about educational opportunities at UCCS.
With the students presenting during the early Monday sessions and the final Friday discussions, their contributions bookended the event, leaving an impression on attendees. Their presentations not only highlighted technical excellence but also highlighted UCCS’s commitment to fostering the next generation of aerospace pioneers.
“Attending this conference underscores UCCS’s growing reputation as a hub for aerospace research and innovation. By taking part in events like SciTech, UCCS students continue to demonstrate their ability to tackle complex challenges and contribute meaningfully to the future of aerospace engineering. This conference was not just an opportunity to present their research but also a moment to represent the excellence and potential of UCCS on an international platform,” stated George.
The AIAA SciTech Conference, themed “Energizing the Future,” brought together global leaders, technical experts, and academic innovators to exchange ideas and foster collaboration. This year’s theme highlighted the importance of interdisciplinary approaches and partnerships in driving the aerospace industry forward.
About the UCCS College of Engineering and Applied Science
The College of Engineering and Applied Science enrolls more than 1,700 students and offers 24 engineering and computer science degrees, ranging from bachelor to doctoral. The college is a Department of Homeland Security / National Security Agency Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense and works closely with the National Cybersecurity Center and with more than 250 aerospace and defense, information technology, cybersecurity and engineering organizations in the Pikes Peak region. Learn more about the College of Engineering and Applied Science at UCCS.