Aerospace & Aviation

Reaching for the Stars in Hampton Roads

Aerospace and Aviation Technology is on the rise in Hampton Roads. Benefiting from state-of-the-art research facilities such as NASA and the National Institute of Aerospace, the region is producing breakthrough innovations and technology that is powering the future of this industry and helping the region take flight.

Notable Research Facilities

NASA Langley

Langley Research Center is a branch of NASA, The National Aeronautics and Space Administration, an elite group of only 20 locations nationally. Led by some of the industry’s preeminent minds, the centers overarching mission is to develop and improve technology for aviation and space exploration. Known as America’s first civil aeronautics laboratory, Langley produces innovations that have drastically impacted not only the industry, but the world.

The National Institute of Aerospace (NIA)

The NIA is a non-profit research and graduate education institute founded by a consortium of large universities to conduct cutting-edge aerospace and atmospheric research, develop new technologies and train the next generation of scientists and engineers. NIA serves as a strategic partner with NASA Langley Research Center.

Virginia Modeling, Analysis and Simulation Center (VMASC)

VMASC, established in 1997 as ODU’s modeling and simulation research center, was created at the request of the Department of Defense (DoD), for both workforce development and research and development support in modeling and simulation. Over the last twenty years VMASC has continued its exploration of new ways to employ modeling and simulation to solve real world problems. The Center has brought in over one hundred million dollars in research and continues its international recognition as the premiere center for modeling and simulation across the globe.

Workforce Development and Education

Aviation Academy
A program for high school students interested in aviation engineering
Old Dominion University

As the region’s leading technical school, ODU’s Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering trains high performing and work ready engineers

Hampton University
HU’s Department of Aviation in the School of Engineering and Technology is ranked #1 in Virginia for aviation programs
 
Embry-Riddle
Embry-Riddle is a well known Aeronautics University headquartered in Florida and Arizona with additional locations around the world. They have four satellite campuses in the Hampton Roads region offering degrees in Aeronautics and Aviation Management
Aviation Institute of Maintenance
Offering degrees in aircraft maintenance and aeronautics management.

Military Presence

The Hampton Roads region is known for their military presence. In total, there are 15 installations that represent all five branches of the military. This provides the opportunity for business to both support the advancement of technology in space and also through manufacturing and maintenance.

Hampton Roads is home to two major military aviation facilities: Naval Air Station Oceana and Langley Air Force Base.

N.A.S. Oceana

Commissioned in 1943, N.A.S. is the world’s largest master jet base. The facility is manned by more than 8,000 active duty & reserve personnel and 4,300 civilians, and is home to 18 fight/attack squadrons and the Navy’s most advanced aircraft.

Langley Air Force Base

Commissioned in 1916, Langley Air Force Base is the home of an Air Base Wing, Fighter Wing, and Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance Wing. This facility is manned by more than 9,000 active duty & reserve personnel and 3,000 civilians.