Launchpad Ignite Program

Empowering the Next Generation of Aerospace Innovators at Oklahoma State University.

Program Overview

The Launchpad Ignite Program is a selective applied research and innovation experience within the Launchpad Center for Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) - Helmerich Research Center, at the OSU Tulsa Campus. The program empowers graduate and undergraduate students to collaborate with faculty researchers, industry partners, and startup ventures on breakthrough aerospace and drone technologies.

Work directly on projects spanning:
• High-Performance Propulsion & Acoustics
• Supply Chain and Drone Logistics
• Drones as First Responders
• Human-Capable VTOL and Next-Gen Air Vehicles
• Drone Fleet Autonomy & Swarm Intelligence
• AI-Enabled Design, Testing, and Commercialization

Ignite students earn digital micro-credentials and badges recognizing milestones in AAM research, commercialization, and entrepreneurship. Completion of the program contributes toward Launchpad certification and potential EDA-funded research assistantships or commercialization awards.
Eligibility

• Open to graduate students in STEM disciplines (engineering, computer science, aerospace, or related fields).
• Must be currently enrolled at Oklahoma State University.
• Commitment: 10–15 hours per week.
• Faculty or industry mentor endorsement strongly preferred.
Program Benefits

✅ Mentorship from Launchpad faculty and industry experts
✅ Access to Launchpad laboratories, test facilities, and OAIRE resources
✅ Inclusion in Launchpad’s Industry Consortium Research Teams
✅ Opportunities for research commercialization and startup formation
✅ Micro-credential in AAM Research, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship
Section 1 – Applicant Information
Name Name First Last
Email
Phone Phone - ### - ### ####
Degree Program:
Department / College:
Academic Standing:

Academic Standing: Undergraduate Graduate Other Other
Expected Graduation Date: Expected Graduation Date: / MM / DD YYYY
How are you choosing to take this course?

How are you choosing to take this course? MAE5010 Micro-credential
Section 2 – Research & Skills Background
Primary Technical Interests:
Relevant Coursework or Research Experience:
Software, Programming, or Laboratory Skills:
Briefly describe your interest in Advanced Air Mobility or Drone Technologies (100–200 words):
Maximum of 200 words allowed. Currently Entered: 0 words.
Section 3 – Focus Area
Please indicate your preferred area(s) of engagement (select up to two):

Please indicate your preferred area(s) of engagement (select up to two): Propulsion & Acoustics Medical & Emergency Drone Operations Smart Supply Chain and Logistics Human-Capable eVTOL Systems Drone Autonomy & Swarm Intelligence AI & Systems Optimization Commercialization & Entrepreneurship
Section 4 – Faculty or Industry Mentor (if known)
Please provide name, department, organization, and email address for your Faculty or Industry Mentor.
Section 5 – Statement of Purpose
In 250–300 words, describe:

• Why you want to join the Ignite program.
• How it aligns with your academic and career goals.
• What unique perspective, skill, or curiosity you bring to the Launchpad community.
Maximum of 300 words allowed. Currently Entered: 0 words.
Section 6 - What to expect with Launchpad’s Two-Phase Design

The Ignite Program integrates two halves:

• Phase 1 – Research & Publication (Independent Study)
• Phase 2 – Commercialization & Entrepreneurship

To make both phases feasible within a single academic year (while students maintain coursework or research assistantships), a moderate weekly time expectation is realistic.

• Phase 1 (research): ~10 hours/week for lab and writing work.
• Phase 2 (commercialization): ~10–15 hours/week for venture planning, pitch development, and collaboration.
Section 7 – Enrollment & Commitment (MAE5010)

By signing below, I acknowledge and agree to the following:

• Time Commitment: I understand that participation in the Ignite Program requires a commitment of approximately 10–15 hours per week.

• Academic Enrollment: I understand that participation includes enrollment in a graduate-level Independent Study Course at my OSU academic unit (such as MAE5010), which incorporates the approved Advanced Air Mobility syllabus and learning objectives. This course constitutes the first phase of the program experience, focused on conducting applied research, aligning with Launchpad project priorities, and preparing findings suitable for academic or peer-reviewed publication.

• Applied Commercialization Experience: The second phase focuses on translating validated research results into intellectual property (IP) where applicable and developing a plan for commercialization. Students will create an investor-ready startup pitch deck outlining how the technology or IP could evolve into a viable venture. Ignite students are encouraged to collaborate with other students, faculty, and industry partners throughout this process to simulate real-world venture creation.

• Mentorship and Framework Support: Launchpad provides access to a network of mentors, industry partners, and subject matter experts, as well as structured guidance during the second half of the program.

• Engagement and Documentation: I agree to actively participate in Launchpad research, meetings, and assignments as directed by my mentor. I also grant permission for my participation, achievements, and related materials to be documented and featured in Launchpad reports, publications, or promotional communications.
Section 7 – Enrollment & Commitment (Micro-credintal)

By signing below, I acknowledge and agree to the following:

• Time Commitment: I understand that participation in the Ignite Program requires a commitment of approximately 10–15 hours per week.

• Applied Commercialization Experience: The second phase focuses on translating validated research results into intellectual property (IP) where applicable and developing a plan for commercialization. Students will create an investor-ready startup pitch deck outlining how the technology or IP could evolve into a viable venture. Ignite students are encouraged to collaborate with other students, faculty, and industry partners throughout this process to simulate real-world venture creation.

• Mentorship and Framework Support: Launchpad provides access to a network of mentors, industry partners, and subject matter experts, as well as structured guidance during the second half of the program.

• Engagement and Documentation: I agree to actively participate in Launchpad research, meetings, and assignments as directed by my mentor. I also grant permission for my participation, achievements, and related materials to be documented and featured in Launchpad reports, publications, or promotional communications.
Draw your signature into the box below.

Draw or Type

I understand this is a legal representation of my signature. Clear

Full Name

I understand this is a legal representation of my signature.
Date of Signature Date of Signature / MM / DD YYYY
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis each semester.

Questions or concerns - please email Launchpad@okstate.edu

Launchpad Ignite Program

Launchpad Ignite Program

Eligibility • Open to graduate students in STEM disciplines (engineering, computer science, aerospace, or related fields). • Must be currently enrolled at Oklahoma State University. • Commitment: 10–15 hours per week. • Faculty or industry mentor endorsement strongly preferred.

Section 1 – Applicant Information

Section 2 – Research & Skills Background

Section 3 – Focus Area

Section 4 – Faculty or Industry Mentor (if known)

Section 5 – Statement of Purpose

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis each semester. Questions or concerns - please email Launchpad@okstate.edu

Eligibility

• Open to graduate students in STEM disciplines (engineering, computer science, aerospace, or related fields).
• Must be currently enrolled at Oklahoma State University.
• Commitment: 10–15 hours per week.
• Faculty or industry mentor endorsement strongly preferred.

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis each semester.

Questions or concerns - please email Launchpad@okstate.edu