Discover the excitement of aerospace engineering during this immersive, weeklong experience led by faculty from USF鈥檚 Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering on the USF Tampa campus. Students are introduced to the fundamentals of flight, propulsion, and aerodynamics through engaging, hands-on instruction designed to make complex concepts approachable and exciting.
Throughout the week, participants explore jet engines using a small-scale turbine system, train on FAA-certified flight simulators, experiment with drones and control systems, and work collaboratively to design, fabricate, and test aircraft wings using CAD tools and fabrication equipment in USF鈥檚 Design for X Laboratory. The experience is further enhanced by a visit to a local aerospace engineering company, offering an inside look at real-world industry applications.
USF Aerospace Engineering Details
Camp Director: Dr. Ahmadreza Vaselbehagh and Dr. Ajit Mujumdar
Location: USF Tampa Campus
Grade Levels: Rising 9th - 12th
Time: 9:00AM - 4:00PM
Cost: $1,450
| Dates | Campus | Is this eligible for Rocky's Residents? |
|---|---|---|
| July 20th - 24th, 2026 | USF Tampa | Yes |
What to Expect
Foundations of Flight & Aerodynamics
Students build core knowledge of how aircraft fly through hands-on activities, including wind tunnel experiments, supersonic flow demonstrations, and semi-assembly of an actual airplane and engine activation.
Jet Engines & Propulsion Systems
Participants explore how thrust is generated by working directly with a small-scale turbine engine and examining the mechanics of modern propulsion systems, capped with an industry field trip.
Simulation, Drones & Flight Control
Using USF鈥檚 FAA-certified flight simulators, students learn flight controls, stability, and piloting concepts while also engaging in hands-on drone activities focused on autonomy and system integration.
Design, Build & Fly
Teams design, fabricate, and test their own aircraft while learning engineering design principles and collaborating in USF鈥檚 advanced lab spaces.
The week concludes with a showcase of student-designed aircraft and direct engagement with USF student organizations, including the Society of Aeronautics and Rocketry, the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics student chapter, and the student satellite club. Whether students dream of designing aircraft, piloting the skies, or launching systems into space, this program offers a powerful introduction to aerospace engineering at one of Florida鈥檚 leading research universities.
Useful Information
Registration & Program Details
When does registration open for the USF Aerospace Engineering Program?
Registration for all 2026 summer programs will open on February 1, 2026.
What is the capacity of the USF Aerospace Engineering Program?
The USF Aerospace Engineering Program has a capacity of 30 campers.
Where is the USF Aerospace Engineering Program located?
The USF Aerospace Engineering Program takes place on the USF Tampa campus. We will share finalized location details as we get closer to the program start date.
What time is drop-off and pick-up for the USF Aerospace Engineering Program?
Our staff will be ready to greet your child for drop-off at 8:50 AM, with pick-up beginning at 4:00 PM. If you are running late for either drop-off or pick-up, please give us a call at (813) 974-3355 to keep us informed.
After registering for the USF Aerospace Engineering Program, when will I start receiving logistical details?
You will receive several reminder emails leading up to the camp start date. Emails will be sent 60, 30, 14, 7, and 1 day prior, each containing important information to ensure a successful experience at the USF Aerospace Engineering Program.
Do students need prior experience in engineering or aerospace?
No prior experience is required. All concepts are introduced at an age-appropriate level, and activities are designed for students with a wide range of academic backgrounds.
What should students wear?
Students should wear comfortable clothing suitable for hands-on activities, long pants, and closed-toe shoes, which are required for laboratory safety. Long hair should be tied back during lab activities.
Will there be a field trip?
Yes. The camp includes two supervised field trip to an aerospace engineering facility as part of the jet engines and propulsion activities and an aviation facility as part of the aerodynamics and aircraft design activities.
Staff & Safety
Who are the USF Faculty/Staff who will be leading the USF Aerospace Engineering Program?
The program will be led by Dr. Ahmad Vasel-Be-Hagh, Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering at the 色色研究所, and Dr. Ajit Mujumdar, Instructor in Mechanical Engineering. Dr. Vasel-Be-Hagh joined USF in 2024 and directs the Thermofluids Discovery Laboratory. He is a thermal and fluid sciences expert with more than $2 million in research funding from agencies including the National Science Foundation, NASA, the U.S. Department of the Interior, and the Tennessee Valley Authority. His work focuses on energy and aerospace systems, renewable energy impacts on the atmosphere, and next-generation technologies such as hydrogen-powered aircraft. Dr. Mujumdar brings extensive expertise in particle technology, mixing, and numerical modeling, with a strong background in mechanical engineering and research on advanced material processing techniques used in pharmaceutical and industrial applications. Together, they bring deep academic, research, and applied engineering experience to the program.
Are staff background-checked and trained?
Yes. All staff undergo Level 2 background checks and complete USF鈥檚 youth protection and safety training.
Residential Options
Are there residential options available for the USF Aerospace Engineering Program?
Yes, the USF Aerospace Engineering Program is eligible for Rocky鈥檚 Residents, a residential add-on offered for select high school programs. This option provides 6 days and 5 nights of supervised on-campus housing, meals, and evening programming that supports community building and exposure to university life.
How can I register for Rocky's Residents residential add-on?
During registration for your day camp, you will have the option to add Rocky's Residents as part of the process. There is no separate registration required for the residential program.
How much does the Rocky's Residents residential add-on cost?
The cost for Rocky's Residents is $1,395 per camper. This includes:
- 6 days and 5 nights of accommodation at Juniper-Poplar Residence Hall
- All meals provided at USF Dining Halls
- Supervision and activities led by trained counselors
- Recreation and wellness activities, including sports, fitness challenges, and more
- Access to campus facilities, such as recreational fields and study lounges
- A campus tour and presentations from USF Admissions and Student Success
- Evening events with student organizations and USF faculty
- Laundry facilities for campers' use
- 24-hour on-call emergency maintenance and support
Cancellation & Changes
What is the cancellation, transfer, and refund policy for USF Youth Experiences programs?
If you need to cancel or transfer a camp registration, please email youthxp@usf.edu.
Cancellations or transfer requests received at least 15 business days prior to the camp start date will be eligible for a refund or transfer to another available camp, minus any administrative or processing fees. Cancellations or transfer requests received within 15 business days of the camp start date are not eligible for a refund or transfer. No refunds will be issued after a camp has begun, regardless of the number of days attended or participation level. No refunds will be issued if a participant is dismissed from camp due to a violation of the camp鈥檚 conduct policy or code of behavior.
We make every effort to run all camps exactly as scheduled. In the unlikely event it becomes necessary to cancel, postpone, or combine camps, or change a camp location, you will be notified by email or phone. Please ensure your contact information is up to date. If USF cancels a camp, you will receive a full refund. If USF reschedules a camp, you will have the option to receive a full refund or transfer to the new session.
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