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WHAT A YEAR!
Along with it’s challenges, 2020 also brought ample opportunities for Wichita State University’s National Institute for Aviation Research. It was a record year in many ways, and we have our dedicated, steadfast, quick-on-their-feet staff to thank. Take a look at some of the accomplishments and programs that will go down in university history thanks to the innovation and perseverance of NIAR researchers, engineers, technicians and administration. Thank you for doing business with us in 2020. We hope you have a joyous holiday season!
2020 HIGHLIGHTS
FEBRUARY
Wichita State licenses wind turbine protection technology developed
by NIAR researcher Billy Martin to Lightning Diversion Systems. Read more
MARCH
FAA awards CECAM $8.2 million for nine new projects and to provide
additional funding for nine existing projects. Read more
APRIL
NIAR uses 3D printing resources to assist the Ad Astra Coalition
manufacturing PPE for COVID-19 relief efforts. Read more
FirePoint hosts the C3 Challenge, selecting teams to design next-generation drone systems in partnership with the U.S. Army’s Combat Capabilities Development Command and Aviation & Missile Center. Read more
MAY
The U.S. Air Forces’ B1-B and Army’s UH-60L Black Hawk arrive at NIAR ASTEC for long-term digital twin research programs.
SEPTEMBER
Deloitte and Wichita State University join forces to launch the Smart Factory @ Wichita. Read more
Engineering Design & Modification Lab announces new partnerships and Boeing 777 conversion program. Read more
Advanced Virtual Engineering and Testing Center renamed Jerry Moran Center in tribute to Kansas Sen. Jerry Moran’s focus on Kansans, the advancement of our nation’s defense and the future learning research. Read more
OCTOBER
NIAR teams take home gold and bronze awards in the Air Force’s inaugural Advanced Manufacturing Olympics. Read more




USAF adds WSU-NIAR to elite list of Skyborg program vendors.
Army awards $13.5 million for high-speed missile materials research. Read more


WSU opens Molecular Diagnostics Lab to provide COVID testing, with strong support from NIAR Robotics & Automation Lab. Read more
NOVEMBER
ATLAS receives $13.7 million from the U.S. Air Force for advanced composites research. Read more
Best wishes for a new year full of opportunity and success!
National Institute for Aviation Research
Wichita State University
1845 Fairmount St., Wichita, KS 67260-0093 
Ph: (316) 978-6427