Aerospace students set new world record of achievement


LAWRENCE — A record-setting accomplishment from a group of recent University of Kansas School of Engineering graduates garnered special recognition from the world’s leading organization for aerospace engineering.

The American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) plans to honor the KU Department of Aerospace Engineering for the accomplishments of all students in the 2014 graduating class. Every single student was part of at least one AIAA international design competition team that won an award in the 2013-2014 academic year. This is the first time in KU and AIAA history that this achievement has occurred.

“This unparalleled accomplishment from the Department of Aerospace Engineering is a shining example of KU’s commitment to prepare students for lifelong learning, leadership and success,” said KU Chancellor Bernadette Gray-Little. “It’s a unique world-class achievement that draws attention to our talented students.”

In a special ceremony set for 4:45 p.m. Friday, Nov. 7, in the Spahr Engineering Classroom of Eaton Hall, representatives from some of the largest aerospace firms in Kansas will gather to honor the class of 2014 for their achievements.

KU has a long and distinguished legacy of success in AIAA competitions. Since 1981, the university has won more aerospace design awards than any other institution in the world, AIAA confirmed.

“This achievement is a testament to the ingenuity and dedication of our students,” Dean of Engineering Michael Branicky said. “It is also a mark of distinction for our aerospace engineering faculty members. It shows their long-standing commitment to students and to expanding knowledge and seeking better solutions to challenges in aerospace engineering.”

The seniors along with other undergraduate and graduate level students placed in the top three in five separate AIAA competitions in 2013-2014. Here’s the rundown:

1st and 3rd Place, Undergraduate Aircraft Team Design Competition.

1st and 2nd Place, International Gas Turbine Institute International Undergraduate Team Engine Design Competition (co-sponsored with the American Society of Mechanical Engineers)

2nd Place, Graduate Team Aircraft Design Competition.

2nd and 3rd Place, Individual Undergraduate Aircraft Design Competition.

3rd Place, Team Space Transportation Design competition.

 

Fri, 11/07/2014

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Cody Howard

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Cody Howard

School of Engineering

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