Help Thunderbird Aerospace Travel & Compete on the National Stage!
Thunderbird Aerospace is a student-led rocketry team where Indigenous and non-Indigenous students collaborate to push the boundaries of aerospace engineering. This year, we are preparing to compete in First Nations Launch (Wisconsin, USA) and Launch Canada (Ontario, Canada)—two prestigious competitions that challenge us to design, build, and launch high-powered rockets.
However, getting there is one of our biggest challenges. Travel costs, accommodation, and competition fees add up quickly, and as a student-run team, we need your support to make this opportunity possible. Every donation brings us closer to liftoff!
Project Description
In 2025, Thunderbird Aerospace will compete in:
- First Nations Launch (Wisconsin, USA) – A NASA-sponsored rocketry competition that provides Indigenous students with hands-on aerospace experience and mentorship from industry leaders.
- Launch Canada (Ontario, Canada) – Canada’s top student rocketry competition, bringing together university teams to push the limits of experimental rocketry.
These competitions provide invaluable technical experience in aerodynamics, propulsion, and structural design, while fostering teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving skills. Our team’s strength comes from the collaboration between Indigenous and non-Indigenous students, combining diverse perspectives to build cutting-edge aerospace technology and inspire future generations of engineers.
Challenges and Impact of Your Support
Competing at this level requires more than just building a rocket—we need to get our team to the competition sites, transport our equipment, and cover essential travel expenses.
Your donation will help us:
- Cover airfare and ground transportation for our team and equipment
- Fund accommodations for the duration of both competitions
- Transport our rocket and materials safely to each event
- Pay for entry fees so we can compete at the highest level
By supporting Thunderbird Aerospace, you’re not just funding travel—you’re fueling a mission to break barriers in aerospace, promote Indigenous representation in STEM, and empower a new generation of engineers through collaboration and innovation. Your contribution will directly impact our ability to compete and continue breaking barriers in the space industry.
Are you an organization or business and want to support us? Corporate sponsorship opportunities are available. Give through our Corporate Giving and Sponsorship page or contact us by emailing Raven Caron at ravenc01@student.ubc.ca to discuss further.
About Thunderbird Aerospace
Thunderbird Aerospace is a student-led rocketry team dedicated to innovation, education, and representation in aerospace engineering. With a strong Indigenous presence in our team, we are committed to blending modern engineering with Indigenous perspectives while creating an inclusive environment where students from all backgrounds can gain hands-on experience in aerospace.
Our team thrives on collaboration, bringing together diverse talents and perspectives to create groundbreaking aerospace technology. More than just a competition team, Thunderbird Aerospace is a movement—paving the way for a more diverse and inclusive aerospace industry through mentorship, outreach, and technical excellence.
Help us take flight! Donate today to support Thunderbird Aerospace’s journey to First Nations Launch & Launch Canada!