Welcome to the 77th Annual
AIAA Southeastern Regional Student Conference
Columbia, SC
March 26th - 27th, 2026
2026 Conference Winners
Outstanding Branch Activity
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1st Place:
How to Plan Your Conference: the University of South Carolina's Guide to Large Event Planning
Michael Cargill; Alberto Diaz
The University of South Carolina
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2nd Place:
From Rocky Top to the Classroom: K-12 STEM Outreach by the Volunteers
Cole Perry; Carson Waddell; Alyssa Bice
The University of Tennessee
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3rd Place:
Florida Tech AIAA: Expanding Student Opportunity on the Space Coast and Beyond
Daria Astaire
Florida Institute of Technology
Freshman/Sophomore Open Topic
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1st Place:
Applications for Quantum Optimization Algorithms in Low-Thrust Spaceflight Navigation
Aneesh Sattiraju; Skyler Kim
Georgia Institute of Technology
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2nd Place:
Comparative Analysis of Energy Absorption Efficiency in Triply Periodic Minimal Surface (TPMS) vs. Honeycomb Lattices for Lunar Lander Primary Strut Attenuation.
Gabriel Brazzeal; Kenza Rih
The University of Florida
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3rd Place:
The Future of Space Exploration: Exploring Challenges and Solutions Within the Field of Aerospace Medicine
Alyssa Bice
The University of Tennessee
High School Category
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1st Place:
Integrated Aero-Structural Optimization of Bio-Inspired and Generative AI Airfoils with Internal Lattice Architectures
Saahil Doshi; Cashton Isaac
Oconee County High School
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2nd Place:
Computational Analysis of Propeller-Wing Interaction: Quantifying Blown Lift on a NACA 4412 Airfoil
Tejus Peri; Ansh Mishra
Alliance Academy for Innovation
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3rd Place:
Real-Time Digital Twin Implementation for Predictive Maintenance of UAVs Using Embedded Sensor Fusion and Machine Learning
Naren Pai
William G. Enloe High School
Team Category
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1st Place:
Reaction Wheel Roll Stabilization and Control for an L1 High-Power Rocket
Georgia Institute of Technology
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2nd Place:
Integrated Design and Analysis of a Low-Cost, Motor-Driven Airbrake System for a Sounding Rocket
The University of Georgia
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3rd Place:
Design of a 1000 N N2O/Paraffin-ABS Hybrid Rocket Engine for a Reusable VTVL Lander
Georgia Institute of Technology
Graduate Category
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1st Place:
Exact Beltramian Solution of the Bidirectional Vortex Motion in a Capped Ellipsoidal Cyclonic Rocket Engine
Patrick Eid
Auburn University
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2nd Place:
Novel Shock-Tube Test Facility Modification for Testing Dynamic Behavior of Carbon Fiber Airframes subjected to impulsive shock loading
Jonathan Zak
Vanderbilt University
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3rd Place:
A Stochastic Dissipation Model for Predicting Macroscale Burn Behavior of HMX from Microstructural Statistics
Philip Melton
Louisiana State University
Undergraduate Category
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1st Place:
Aero-Acoustic Optimization and Experimental Validation of a NACA 2415 Toroidal UAV Propeller
Abhinav Das
The University of North Carolina at Charlotte
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2nd Place:
Design, Manufacturing, and Testing of a Data Acquisition System (DAS) for Use in the Development of Control Systems for Fixed-Wing Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS)
Tucker Jaudon; Austin Hoff
Mississippi State University
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3rd Place:
Modeling and Stability Analysis of Inertial Roll Coupling in Supersonic Sounding Rockets
Saptak Das
Georgia Institute of Technology
Schedule
Download the 2026 Conference Program
Download the Conference Brochure
Wednesday, March 25th
| 4:00 pm - 11:00 pm | Check in |
Thursday, March 26th
| 8:00 am - 8:45 am | Keynote |
| 8:45 am - 12:30 pm | Technical sessions |
| 12:30 pm - 2:00 pm | Luncheon & Speaker |
| 2:15 pm - 5:45 pm | Technical sessions |
| 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm | Evening Social |
Friday, March 27th
| 8:00 am - 12:15 pm | Technical sessions |
| 2:00 pm | Local Exploration |
| 5:30 pm - 9:00 pm | Awards Banquet |
Saturday, March 28th
| 8:00 am - 10:00 am | Check out |
Speakers
Keynote Speaker
Joseph G. Peña
Director & Chief Engineer, 787 Interiors Design
Boeing Commercial Airplanes
Joseph Peña is the Director and Chief Engineer for 787 Interiors Design at Boeing Commercial Airplanes. In this role, he leads a global team of over 400 professionals responsible for the development, certification, and implementation of innovative cabin solutions for the Dreamliner fleet. His leadership ensures that the 787 continues to set the standard for passenger comfort and operational efficiency.
With a career spanning several decades at Boeing, Joseph has held numerous leadership positions in engineering and program management. He is recognized for his technical expertise in aerospace interiors and his commitment to developing the next generation of aerospace engineers. Joseph holds a degree in Mechanical Engineering and is a frequent speaker on topics of aerospace innovation and engineering leadership.
Luncheon Speaker
Dr. Lee Jasper
Systems Engineer
Space Dynamics Laboratory
Dr. Lee Jasper is a Systems Engineer at the Space Dynamics Laboratory (SDL), where he focuses on the design and implementation of advanced satellite systems. His expertise in astrodynamics and orbital debris mitigation is critical to the success of major satellite missions, including CubeSats and JPL's NISAR mission. Lee's work supports the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) and other government agencies in maintaining the long-term sustainability of the space environment.
Lee is an active member of the aerospace community and has contributed to numerous technical publications on orbital mechanics and space situational awareness. He is dedicated to advancing the field of small satellite technology and mentoring students interested in pursuing careers in space systems engineering.
Awards Banquet Speaker
The Honorable Charles F. Bolden Jr.
Major General, United States Marine Corps (Ret.)
12th NASA Administrator
The Honorable Charles F. Bolden Jr. served as the 12th Administrator of NASA from 2009 to 2017. During his tenure, he oversaw the transition of the space shuttle program to a new era of exploration focused on the International Space Station and the development of the Space Launch System (SLS) and the Orion spacecraft. A former astronaut, Bolden flew four space shuttle missions, including STS-31, which deployed the Hubble Space Telescope, and STS-60, the first joint U.S.-Russian space shuttle mission.
Bolden's distinguished career also includes 34 years of service in the United States Marine Corps, where he earned the rank of Major General. He is a graduate of the United States Naval Academy and has received numerous awards and honors for his service to his country and the field of aerospace. Today, he continues to advocate for STEM education and international cooperation in space through the Charles F. Bolden Group.
Location
The 2026 conference sessions will be held at the Russell House University Union on the University of South Carolina campus. As the central hub for student life and events, the Russell House provides modern, flexible facilities including the Ballroom and Theater, making it the ideal venue for our technical sessions and keynote events.
Columbia, the capital of South Carolina, is a historic and vibrant city known for its Southern charm and growing technical landscape. As home to the University of South Carolina, it serves as a major hub for education, research, and innovation in the Southeast.
Aerospace and Technology in the Midlands
The Columbia region is increasingly becoming a center for aerospace and advanced manufacturing:- The McNAIR Center at the University of South Carolina, focusing on aerospace research and innovation.
- Shaw Air Force Base, located nearby, is a major military installation and home to the 20th Fighter Wing.
- Boeing South Carolina, located in nearby North Charleston, is a major assembly site for the 787 Dreamliner.
- The region hosts numerous aerospace suppliers and research facilities contributing to the state's growing "Aerospace Alley."
Conference Hotel
Hilton Garden Inn Columbia/Harbison
434 Columbiana Dr
Columbia, SC 29212
(803) 407-6640
Conference Venue
USC Russell House
1400 Greene Street
Columbia, SC 29208
(803) 777-3196
Parking: Bull Street Garage
Nearby Attractions
- Riverbanks Zoo and Garden, one of the nation's best zoos and botanical gardens.
- South Carolina State Museum, featuring four floors of art, history, and science.
- Congaree National Park, known for its giant hardwoods and diverse ecosystem.
- Columbia Museum of Art, located in the heart of downtown.
- EdVenture Children's Museum, a great interactive experience.
- Lake Murray, offering water sports and recreation just minutes away.
- The Vista, a historic district with dining, shopping, and nightlife.
Sponsors
National Sponsor
Platinum Plus Sponsor
Platinum Sponsor
Gold Sponsor
Silver Sponsor
Bronze Sponsor
Don and Ruth Kaderbek
Dr. E. Stan Powell (Memorial Gift)
Dr. L. Michael Freeman
(Memorial Gift: UA Alumni)
Contributors
Host School
The University of South Carolina (USC), located in Columbia, is a flagship public research university founded in 1801. It is the largest university in the state and is recognized for its high research activity and commitment to student success.
The Molinaroli College of Engineering and Computing at USC is a leader in aerospace research and education. The college offers comprehensive programs in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, and other technical disciplines. It is home to state-of-the-art facilities like the McNAIR Center for Aerospace Innovation and Research, which collaborates with industry partners to advance aerospace technologies.
USC's aerospace program provides students with hands-on experience in areas such as advanced materials, composite structures, and autonomous systems. The university's strategic location in the Southeast, combined with its strong ties to the aerospace industry, makes it an ideal host for the AIAA Southeastern Regional Student Conference.
Events
Download the Conference Brochure
Sponsor Tables
Thursday, 8:45 am - 5:00 pm
Location: Russell House Lobby
Several sponsors will be onsite Thursday throughout the day. They will be available to discuss opportunities and programs with student attendees. This is a great opportunity to grow your professional network. Please stop by as your schedule allows.
Luncheon
Thursday, 12:30 pm - 2:00 pm
Location: Russell House Ballroom
Sponsored by Reed Integration
Join us for an exclusive luncheon at the conference, featuring an address by Dr. Lee Jasper, Systems Engineer at Space Dynamics Laboratory. Jasper will share insights on the latest innovations in orbital debris and mission support. This special event offers a unique opportunity to network with fellow professionals while enjoying a delicious meal.
Awards Banquet
Friday, 5:30 pm - 9:00 pm
Social 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Dinner/Speaker 6:30 pm - 9:00 pm
Location: Williams-Brice Stadium (Founders Zone)
Sponsored by Boeing
Join us for the Awards Banquet at the iconic Williams-Brice Stadium! This special evening will celebrate excellence as we announce the winners across all award categories. You'll hear from The Honorable Charles F. Bolden Jr., former NASA Administrator, as he shares insights from his distinguished career in aerospace.
Winner's Reception
Friday, After the Banquet
Prize winners and professional attendees are invited to attend the Winners' Reception immediately following the awards banquet. Network with the category winners, speakers, sponsors, and industry professionals in attendance as we close out the 2026 conference!
Proceedings
Technical Paper - Undergraduate
Technical Paper - Graduate
Technical Paper - Team
Technical Paper - High School
Freshman/Sophomore Open Topic
Outstanding Branch Activity
| Title | Presenters | University |
|---|---|---|
| AIAA at The University of Georgia | Connor Perrine; Brianna Wong | The University of Georgia |
| Engaging School Spirit and Aerospace Innovation: The MSU AIAA Tailgate Experience | Daniel Hurley | Mississippi State University |
| Exploring New Horizons: Supporting Future Engineers in the Georgia Tech Community and Beyond | Isabelle Pinto; Rishita Mhatre | Georgia Institute of Technology |
| Florida Tech AIAA: Expanding Student Opportunity on the Space Coast and Beyond | Daria Astaire | Florida Institute of Technology |
| From Rocky Top to the Classroom: K-12 STEM Outreach by the Volunteers | Cole Perry; Carson Waddell; Alyssa Bice | The University of Tennessee |
| How to Plan Your Conference: the University of South Carolina's Guide to Large Event Planning | Michael Cargill; Alberto Diaz | The University of South Carolina |