2025 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

The adoption of electric propulsion in aviation is poised to significantly impact aerospace education and influence recruitment, student retention, and technical training in aeronautics and aerospace programs. Electric propulsion requires knowledge from various disciplines such as electrical engineering, materials science, and computer science. This interdisciplinary nature appeals to a broader range of students and offers diverse challenges, creating opportunities for skill development. Furthermore, electric propulsion addresses the demand for sustainable, environmentally friendly aviation. Aerospace programs that emphasize sustainability will resonate with students eager to tackle global challenges like climate change. As governments and industries push for greener aviation, students will feel more connected to real-world applications, knowing that their education prepares them for future-oriented careers.

Curricula aligned with industry trends will likely evolve to include more content on electric propulsion systems, energy storage, and alternative energy sources such as batteries and fuel cell to keep students engaged with cutting-edge technologies. Electric propulsion is already being utilized in small Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS), providing students with hands-on, real-world projects. These tangible applications foster deeper learning and enhance student engagement. This paper will explore how these developments will shape the global perspectives on aerospace education. It will highlight the need for new technologies, faculty development, and how programs and degrees must adapt to create the future of aerospace education, drawing from best practices and lessons learned from the drone economy.