American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics at UCLA

Empowering the next generation of aerospace engineers through technical projects, professional growth, and hands-on experience.

Welcome to AIAA at UCLA

American Institute of Aeronautics & Astronautics (AIAA) Student Branch at UCLA is the campus's largest professional aerospace engineering society. During the school year, we prepare our students technically and professionally for careers in the aerospace industry by hosting networking events, workshops, and industry speaker panels. Additionally, the backbone of AIAA at UCLA is our four student technical projects: Rocket Project, Design Build Fly, Uncrewed Aerial Systems, and Bruin Spacecraft Group.

Our Technical Projects

Learn about the different projects that students partake in to foster skills and knowledge valued by the industry!

Design Build Fly (DBF)

Designing, manufacturing, and testing remote-controlled aircraft for the annual international AIAA DBF flight competition.

Rocket Project (RP)

Engineering liquid-propellant rockets to compete at the annual Dollar per Foot Competition hosted by Friends of Amateur Rocketry.

Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS)

Developing autonomous aircrafts equipped with detection systems and drone swarm technology.

Bruin Spacecraft Group (BSG)

Focusing on small-satellite design and payload development in light of their upcoming launch in 2028-2029.

Future Events

Gain insight into your future profession and opportunities to network with professionals through the events below!

Enormous Activities Fair

Location: Wilson Plaza Time: September 22, 11AM-2PM

Drop by our booth at the Enormous Activities Fair (EAF) in order to learn more about AIAA, talk to upperclassmen, and start your journey into the world of aerospace and aeronautics!

Engineering Welcome Day

Location: Court of Sciences Time: September 23, 9AM-2PM

Engineering Welcome Day (EWD) is a wonderful event to meet fellow engineers and discover clubs focused in engineering. Additionally, it is a great opportunity to ask student leaders and engineering staff about important events and deadlines!

AIAA Kickoff

Location: Kaplan A51 Time: September 24, 6PM-8PM

Join AIAA's kickoff meeting during Week 0 to meet fellow students interested in AIAA. Each of our four technical projects will also be giving a brief introduction to their club so you can know what to look forward to later in the year. AIAA merch giveaways and food will also be provided so be sure to attend!

MAE x MSE Career Fair

Location: Ackermann Grand Ballroom Time: October 13, 10AM-4PM Collaborators: ASME, MRS, Bruin Racing Registration: UCLA MAE x MSE Career Fair Registration 2026

With more than 600 undergraduate and 350 graduate students, the UCLA Mechanical, Aerospace, and Materials Science and Engineering programs represent some of Southern California's top engineering talent.