This month has given us so many opportunities to connect the work of AIAA with our new Domain approach. By working with this new focus on Aeronautics, Aerospace R&D, and Space, AIAA is able to make an even greater impact on the industry, helping our members and their companies succeed. A few areas where I saw this happening are our advocacy efforts and our student programs.
Our advocacy efforts were felt on Capitol Hill during March, with about 115 AIAA members engaging lawmakers to raise awareness of the long-term value that science, engineering, and technology bring to the nation. More than 30 state-based teams met with lawmakers virtually again this year. They emphasized our Key Issues in their conversations around the commercialization of space; development of the 21st-century workforce; stable, long-term funding of research and technologies; and initiatives for the recovery and advancement of the aerospace and defense industry.
In addition, I was able to share the AIAA perspective on the importance of space traffic management through an OpEd piece published by SpaceNews. We believe Congress must act now to avert a catastrophe in space. Tens of thousands of objects are circling Earth, threatening launch vehicles, space assets, and human lives. Congress needs to provide stability and certainty on space traffic management before the next catastrophic event occurs – one in which lives, or key national security and commercial assets, are lost. Then the commercial sector can confidently continue to innovate and invest in responsible new space ventures, expanding the space economy.
I was energized by the kickoff the 2022 Regional Student Conference season. In Regions I and III, I witnessed in person the excitement and enthusiasm of students embarking on their careers, some presenting their research to their peers and mentors for the very first time. From nuclear to solar, and many areas in between, these students are exploring developing technologies in exciting ways. Their research today will help us solve the problems of tomorrow. I saw students from different universities making connections with one another. Many of us know those relationships are the foundation of their lifelong professional network. I’m grateful for the chance to directly advance one of the main goals of AIAA – supporting our student members as they navigate the climb on their career journey.
March also gave us the chance to highlight several AIAA members in honor of Women’s History Month as part of AIAA’s ongoing commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Read more about these women’s achievements on the AIAA social media channels and on Engage.
I continue to be reminded how important it is to stay connected to our passion, to remember why we do what we do in this industry. I’ve talked about it with the AIAA staff and heard their “why” stories. Many AIAA volunteers have shared their “why” stories throughout the years at events and gatherings. I believe we need these periodic reminders – these chances to remember and share – as inspiration to fuel our journey. This work is hard. And this work is important. I’m grateful to be on the journey with you.
With so many activities and celebrations set for the end of April, we will share the next Dan’s Desk message in early May. Especially anticipating the AIAA Board of Trustees’ meeting, as well as numerous committee meetings, we want to provide you with those timely updates. Look for some new features and content.
I always want to be sure our members are aware of the opportunities to make the most of your AIAA experience. Here are a few coming up, and always check the most updated content on aiaa.org.
