Cougs in Space presents a unique opportunity for students in engineering, business, research, sciences, innovation, and more, who are passionate about the space industry to connect with alumni and professionals in those fields. This event is a joint collaboration between the Academic Success and Career Center, the College of Arts & Sciences, the Carson College of Business, the Voiland College of Engineering and Architecture, and the Cougs in Space Club.
Launch into Innovation with the Cougs in Space Keynote and Reception on Wednesday, September 17
The event kicks off from 4:00–6:00 p.m. in Todd Addition 276 with a keynote from Gary Lai, co-founder and CTO of Interlune. A veteran engineer and innovator, Lai has played a central role in developing space systems and technologies. Following the keynote, students, employers, and faculty will connect during a networking reception.
Learning, Networking, and Alumni Insights with our Alumni Panel and other Sponsored Events
The second day of Cougs in Space offers a mix of college-sponsored events and an Alumni Panel discussion.
Students can participate in class visits, resume reviews, tabling, info sessions, and faculty meetings. These activities are designed to provide hands-on career development and insight into opportunities in aerospace and STEM industries.
Students can participate in class visits, resume reviews, tabling, info sessions, and faculty meetings. These activities are designed to provide hands-on career development and insight into opportunities in aerospace and STEM industries.
- Our panelists include Washington State University Alumni:
- Dr. Bonnie Dunbar – NASA astronaut (retired), Professor, Texas A&M University (virtual)
- Kyle Norbert – Orbital Test Analyst, U.S. Space Force (in-person)
- Kelsey Buckles – Aerospace Engineer, NASA Marshall Space Flight Center (virtual)
- Shane Sullivan – Vice President of Operations, SKYTRAC (in-person)
- Matt Donovon – Senior Director of New Shepard System at Blue Origin (in-person)
Join alumni and recruiters from Blue Origin at their open Info Session to learn about the company, internships, and jobs.
Blue Origin is a space company dedicated to enabling millions of people to live and work in space for Earth’s benefit.
Why Attend?
Whether you’re wanting a career in space exploration, curious about innovation, or simply looking for inspiration, Cougs in Space 2025 will help launch your journey.
Cougs in Space is more than an event—it’s a chance to:
Connect with industry leaders and alumni who were once in your shoes.
Explore career opportunities in aerospace, engineering, and beyond.
Gain insights into the future of innovation and space exploration.
Strengthen your professional network with peers, employers, and faculty.
*Cougs In Space is a collaboration between the Palouse Aerospace Club, the Cougs in Space Club, the Academic Success and Career Center, the College of Arts & Sciences, the Carson College of Business, the College of Agricultural, Human, and Natural Resource Sciences, the Voiland College of Engineering and Architecture.
