Launchpad Pioneers Fellowship Application & Scoring Rubric

The Launchpad Pioneers Fellowship is designed for undergraduate, graduate, and Ph.D. students who are passionate about Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), aerospace innovation, and entrepreneurship. This fellowship provides mentorship, industry exposure, and milestone-based learning to help participants transition their ideas into real-world impact.

Fellowship Benefits & Structure

⭐ Self-Paced Curriculum: Fellows complete a series of modules and earn digital badges to unlock an entrepreneurial micro credential.

⭐ Hands-on Business Development: Learn business modeling, pitch deck creation, and market positioning.

⭐ Industry Exposure: Engage in pitch competitions, conferences, and networking events.

⭐ Funding & Resources: Gain access to potential funding opportunities after earning micro credential in entrepreneurship.

⭐ Mentorship & Networking: Work with industry experts and mentors to advance ideas and prototypes.

⭐ Graduation: Receive a Launchpad Pioneers Alumni Jacket upon successful completion and join our alumni for further advancements.
Ideal Candidate Profile

➡️ Currently enrolled in or recently graduated from a STEM-related or business program (Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, AI & Data Science, Business/Entrepreneurship, or related fields).

➡️ Strong interest in aerospace research, technology commercialization, and startup development.

➡️ Demonstrates creative problem-solving and entrepreneurial thinking.

➡️ Willing to engage in networking, pitch competitions, and mentorship opportunities.
Selection Criteria & Evaluation

Each application will be evaluated based on:

✔ Passion & Vision for AAM – Clear enthusiasm and innovative thinking in aerospace.

✔ Entrepreneurial Potential – Demonstrated interest in commercialization or startup growth.

✔ Creative Problem-Solving – Ability to apply forward-thinking solutions to AAM challenges.

✔ Leadership & Collaboration – Experience working with teams and mentors.

✔ Communication & Articulation - Clarity, storytelling, and vision impact.
Application Requirements

✏️ Resume Upload (PDF)

✏️ Unofficial Transcript

✏️ Professional Headshot (High-resolution)

✏️ Letter of Recommendation (Required)

✏️ Completed Application Questions

Rolling Applications & Next Steps -

⚡ Applications are accepted year-round for immediate participation.

⚡ Fellows will be required to attend a virtual orientation before officially starting the program.

⚡ All selected fellows must complete an onboarding process to ensure readiness.

⚡ Please contact launchpad@okstate.edu with any questions or additional information.
What Inspired You? What sparked your interest in Aerospace and Advanced Air Mobility (AAM)? Was it a childhood dream, a thrilling research project, or an experience that changed your perspective? Take us on that journey!
Creative Problem-Solving Challenge: Imagine you have unlimited resources to design a drone that serves a specific societal benefit. What would it do, and how would it make a difference in the world?
Future Impact: Fast forward five years—where do you see yourself? How will this fellowship help you get there?
Visionary Ventures: Tell us about an AAM research project or startup idea you’re passionate about. How do you envision it transforming the future of aerospace?
Overcoming Challenges: Describe a technical or entrepreneurial challenge you’ve faced. What did you learn, and how has it prepared you for this fellowship?
Networking & Growth: What industry events, pitch competitions, or networking opportunities are you most excited about? How do you see them helping your professional growth?
Bonus Question: If you could design a drone with a game-changing feature, what would it be, and how would it benefit society?
Resume Upload (PDF)

Attach Files
Unofficial Transcript

Attach Files
Professional Headshot (high-resolution)

Attach Files
Letter of Recommendation

Attach Files

Launchpad Pioneers Fellowship Application & Scoring Rubric

Launchpad Pioneers Fellowship Application & Scoring Rubric

Fellowship Benefits & Structure

Ideal Candidate Profile

Selection Criteria & Evaluation

Application Requirements