The Cougs in Space Club at WSU hosted two informational events to promote student networking opportunities last Wednesday and Thursday. Wednesday’s event was held from 4 to 6 p.m. in the Spark, featuring a keynote and reception with Gary Lai, an American aerospace engineer and co-founder of Interlune. The second event was held in the Lighty Student Services building from 11 to 12 p.m. as an alumni panel, where students had an opportunity to network with successful individuals in the aerospace industry.
During the keynote and reception event, students learned about Gary Lai’s scientific achievements and contributions to the field. Lai spent 20 years at Blue Origin, a space technology company, where he led the development of many transformative commercial spaceflight projects.
“The aerospace industry has unlimited potential and opportunities for Cougs of all majors,” said Sandi Brabb, director of career services for the Voiland College of Engineering and Architecture. “We’re excited to support this program for students on the WSU campus.”
Panelists present at the alumni networking event included Dr. Donnie Dunbar, NASA retired; Kyle Norbert, U.S. Space Force; Kelsey Buckles, Aerospace Engineer and Shane Sullivan, vice president of operations at SKYTRAC.
Students were prepared to ask questions and connect with alumni in the aerospace industry. Expectations for the event included smart casual or business casual attire, with the Cougar Closet also providing clothing.
“I hope they can draw on some of my experience if they’re interested in getting into aviation or aerospace, because this is how I was able to get into aerospace,” said Shane Sullivan. “You’ve got to figure out what you need to do and how to get connected.”
Sullivan shared that he was a fighter pilot for 20 years in the U.S. Navy, worked at an aircraft manufacturing company in aerial firefighting and then landed at SKYTRAC. He said that these kinds of opportunities are found through making connections and networking.
When Kyle Norbert of the U.S. Air Force was asked how to ask interesting questions, he said, “Try asking a question that starts with a letter of the alphabet.” This provided a fresh perspective on brainstorming interesting and unique questions for employers.
Panel participants who were present on Zoom also shared their advice. Dr. Donnie Dunbar, a retired NASA worker, shared her perspective on what inspired her to join the aerospace industry. Dunbar was nine years old when her family got a TV, and she read science fiction books at the isolated ranch where she lived. She was the oldest of four kids, had a working ranch and shared that her driving force was to leave home.
“Have patience and be willing to put in the work,” said Dunbar. “It’ll work out.”
The panel held by the Cougs in Space club was hosted by Aimee Lunn. The club’s mission aims to provide members with adequate hands-on skills, industry connections, and educational outreach. More information about the club can be found on their website.
