Athens State University is pleased to announce a new learning partnership with VAYA Space, a hybrid rocket propulsion and SmallSat launch company leveraging advances in additive manufacturing to redefine the cost, performance, and safety of space access. A signing ceremony was held on campus to celebrate the agreement.
The agreement will create a Business–Educational Partnership in Space Launch Opportunities between the institutions as Athens State works to develop hands-on STEM projects for students and academic degree programs that address the management of technology, aviation, and aerospace systems management.
VAYA Space is involved in the design and development of a unique space launch system using proprietary, low-cost, safe, and quick-turnaround vehicle concepts especially suited for small payloads in Low-Earth Orbit (LEO). The company will offer internship and/or Co-Op opportunities to Athens State students, allowing them to work with VAYA Space in designing, developing, manufacturing, testing, and launching the STEM-SAT1 small satellite as a learning tool. Students may also have the opportunity to work with other small satellites to assure that they meet all technical, physical, and performance requirements required to launch on a VAYA Space LEO space mission.
In turn, Athens State University will offer the following benefits to VAYA Space personnel:
- 10% tuition discount on all courses
- Waived application fee
- Complimentary evaluation of previously earned educational credits and training/professional certifications/portfolio for consideration of transfer credit
- Complimentary access to lab tutors/specialists in Athens State academic laboratories and writing centers
These benefits extend to the parents, spouse, and children of the learning partner employee/member as well.
Athens State has also established Learning Partnerships with Lyons HR, Nemak, Five Stones Research Corporation, EFI Automotive, and Chick-Fil-A Cullman. More information about learning partnerships can be found at www.athens.edu/learningpartners.