The Lakehead University Thunder Wolves Aero Design Team is competing in the 2026 SAE Aero Design Competition, an internationally recognized engineering challenge that brings together top universities from around the world. This project involves the complete design, fabrication, and testing of high-performance radio-controlled aircraft capable of meeting complex mission requirements in both the Regular Class and Advanced Class categories.

Our multidisciplinary student team applies real aerospace engineering principles including aerodynamics, structural design, propulsion analysis, CAD modeling, FEA simulations, and full-scale flight testing. The project mirrors industry-level engineering processes and provides invaluable hands-on experience in systems engineering, collaboration, and technical innovation.

This initiative gives students the opportunity to translate classroom knowledge into practical application while representing Lakehead University on an international stage. Support from donors and sponsors directly strengthens experiential learning opportunities, enhances student training, and enables our team to compete at the highest level.

Your support will directly fund the materials, tools, and components required to design and manufacture our aircraft. This includes balsa wood, composites, electronics, servos, batteries, landing gear, adhesives, hardware, and testing equipment essential for safe and competitive flight operations.

Funds also help cover prototyping costs, competition registration fees, transportation of the aircraft, and travel for team members to represent Lakehead University at the international event.

Every contribution, large or small, strengthens experiential learning, advances aerospace innovation at Lakehead, and gives students the opportunity to compete among the best engineering programs in the world.