Aviation Week Network has searched the globe for undergraduate or master’s degree students working to solve challenges within the aviation, aerospace, and defense industries. A judging panel composed of hiring managers and engineers evaluated and scored nominees based on academic performance, civic contribution, personal challenges, and the value of each student’s research or design project.

Aviation Week Network has discovered 20 students who embody these traits and are on a course to change the future of aviation, aerospace, and defense. Nominated by their universities, the honorees were selected from an international field of highly qualified students. The class of 2026 was top ranked in academics, has articulated the value of their research and design projects, already dealt with personal struggles, and has an established record of giving back to their communities.

The 20 Twenties program is expanding and gaining traction among colleges and universities with aviation, aerospace & defense, and STEM programs, and this year’s program has delivered another amazing group of qualified nominations: 60 nominees from 20 different colleges and universities representing thirteen countries with diverse cultural and demographic backgrounds. Everyone representing the future of aviation, aerospace, and defense.