University of Nevada, joined United States Space Command Academic Engagement Enterprise

Elite group focuses on advancing space research, innovation and workforce development

The University of Nevada, Reno, has been welcomed into the Academic Engagement Enterprise by the United States Space Command (USSPACECOM). This company includes colleges and specialized military education institutes that specialize in space, cyberspace, and research. Established in 2022, the Academic Engagement Enterprise aims to enhance the capabilities of the future space workforce, promote space-applied research and innovation, broaden access to and understanding of space studies, and foster global dialogue on space-related matters. This effort involves more than 40 universities and institutions from around the United States. Executive Vice President and Provost Jeff Thompson emphasized the significance of the partnership with USSPACECOM in bolstering collaborations with higher education institutions.

He highlighted the benefits of this relationship, including access to spacepower leaders, opportunities for students and faculty to engage in space-applied research and innovation, and the establishment of a public lecture series focused on space. Thompson also noted the alignment of this partnership with the university's newly launched aerospace engineering program. Membership in this esteemed group grants the university access to defense-level space education outcomes, exclusive events, and guest speakers hosted by USSPACECOM, as well as collaborative research, technology integration, student internships, and more. The university's aerospace engineering department, unveiled in fall 2023, was made possible by a generous $36 million donation from the George W. Gillemot Foundation.