AIAA’s 30/30 Recognition Program
Seeking future leaders and pioneers. AIAA’s 30/30 program spotlights young professionals in aerospace–placing technical achievement, future potential, and overall excellence at its core. Selected for the exceptional rigor and impact of their work, these individuals are not only advancing the field today, but shaping the future of aerospace in lasting ways. Their contributions will inform research, influence innovation, and inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers.
This program offers a rare opportunity to celebrate the rising pioneers and changemakers of aerospace—before their names become widely recognized across the industry and beyond.
Nominate yourself, or someone you know, for AIAA’s inaugural 30/30 season.
Nominations open on 1 May 2026 and will close on 15 June 2026
Recipients can expect:
- To be recognized in the October–December issue of Aerospace America
- A free AIAA membership for a year
- Free registration to a 2027 AIAA event (AIAA SciTech, AIAA AVIATION, or ASCEND)
Built for the aerospace professional who:
Is a young professional currently working in the field of aerospace and making accomplishments of note in their respective areas. They are the future leaders and pioneers in industry, academia, and government.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for this program?
The 30/30 Recognition Program is for young professionals in their 30s*, who embody excellence and innovation across the aerospace sector.
*Consideration will also be given to nominees who are younger than 30 who have made notable accomplishments in their careers.
Are self-nominations permitted?
Yes. Self-nominations are permitted. Nominations can also be made on behalf of someone (e.g., a colleague or employee).
Do you have to be a member of AIAA to be nominated? Or to nominate someone?
No. You do not need to be an AIAA member to receive (or nominate someone for) this recognition.
What do recipients of the recognition program receive?
- Recognition in Aerospace America
- The top seven recipients will receives a profile in the October–December print edition of the magazine.
- The additional recipients will be mentioned by name in print and have their full profiles included in an Aerospace America online feature
- Free AIAA membership for a year
- Free registration to attend a 2027 AIAA forum or event
How are the recipients organized?
Both the review process and the presentation of AIAA’s 30/30 are structured around AIAA’s six technical groups:
- Aerospace Design and Structures
- Aerospace Sciences
- Aircraft Technology, Integration, and Operations
- Information Systems
- Propulsion and Energy
- Space and Missiles
Plus a seventh group for anyone whose work does not fit into any of the above groups (e.g., public policy, marketing, business development, etc.).
Who reviews the nominations?
Nominations will be reviewed and assessed by AIAA members who are experts in their field.
Can I nominate more than one person?
Yes. There is no maximum limit on the number of nominees that can be submitted by an individual (or from a company or organization).
Is this recognition program only for commercial industry professionals?
Nominees can be from any area (academia, commercial, government/military, etc.) as long as they are working in the field of aerospace.