Call for Nominations for AIAA’s New 30/30 Recognition Program for Exceptional Young Professionals Written 11 May 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 11, 2026 – Reston, Va. – AIAA is pleased to announce its 30/30 Recognition Program for young professionals who embody excellence and innovation across the aerospace sector. AIAA will recognize 30 individuals in their 30s who are advancing aerospace through meaningful technical achievement, innovation and leadership early in their careers.

Nominations are now being accepted through 15 June 2026.

“30/30 builds on AIAA’s record of excellence in recognizing standout leaders in aerospace,” said AIAA CEO Clay Mowry. “This new program celebrates the next generation’s ingenuity. They are the future leaders and technical pioneers in our profession.”

This program’s timing comes as the aerospace industry continues to face a talent gap. The increasing demand for new technologically skilled workers is outpacing the supply of graduates. This problem compounded by an aging workforce and fierce competition for engineering talent from the technology sector.

AIAA has aligned the program with the Institute’s six technical divisions – Aerospace Design and Structures; Aerospace Sciences; Aircraft Technology, Integration, and Operations; Information Systems; Propulsion and Energy; and Space and Missiles. 30/30 also features a seventh grouping for nominations that don’t fit into the other categories.

AIAA will profile the top recipient from each category in the October–December print issue of its Aerospace America magazine, while all honorees will be recognized in the digital issue. In addition, they will enjoy one complimentary year of AIAA membership, one free registration to an AIAA forum or event in 2027, and exclusive leadership and engagement opportunities at AIAA events. These visibility opportunities include speaking at the Rising Stars in Aerospace sessions for mentoring and inspiring university students, and Rising Leaders in Aerospace sessions for peer networking and professional development.

*Consideration will also be given to nominees who are younger than 30 who have made notable accomplishments in their careers.

Media Contact: Rebecca Gray, [email protected], 804-397-5270 cell

About AIAA
AIAA is the world’s largest aerospace technical society. With more than 33,000 individual members from 91 countries, and over 100 corporate members, AIAA brings together industry, academia, and government to advance engineering and science in aviation, space, and defense. Visit www.aiaa.org or follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, and X.