A new state-of-the-art facility at Wichita State University, the Shocker Fly Lab, will position the university at the forefront of unmanned aerial system (UAS) education, research, and development, ultimately extending our leadership position in aerospace engineering. The Shocker Fly Lab on the Innovation Campus will feature an enclosed flight space for flying robots, also known as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) or drones.
Key Benefits
Drones are transforming industries—from agriculture to healthcare, logistics to national defense. By providing a space for students and faculty to develop and test drone technologies, we will prepare students to excel in these fast-growing sectors.
Cross-Disciplinary Education
The Shocker Fly Lab will support UAS education and course activities, as well as industry-sponsored student competitions. The facility will also provide hands-on (applied) learning experiences for College of Engineering students of all majors.
Faculty-Led Research and Development
The Shocker Fly Lab will support faculty research in drone technology and its applications across various applications and industries. Faculty-led research will include aerodynamics, control systems, and sensor integration.
Joint Programming
Partnering with organizations like WSU Tech, which offers degree and certificate programs in UASs, will leverage their expertise in training and provide hands-on learning opportunities across both institutions. Collaboration like this will enhance our ability to offer joint research and workforce development programs.
Support the Initiative
The proposed location of the Shocker Fly Lab is on the Innovation Campus at WSU, and a strategic position near the Hub for Advanced Materials Research (HAMR) and the John Bardo Center will foster collaboration and innovation in drone development. The Shocker Fly Lab will be fully funded by private gifts, which presents an exciting opportunity for community and industry support. The initiative will be completed in two phases, with a total estimated cost of $12.75 million. Naming opportunities exist for the runway, outbuilding, walls, and support structures, as well as the building itself.
Phase I
The first phase will be a net-enclosed open-air facility measuring approximately 100 feet by 200 feet with a steel structure 30-35 feet high. The curved steel structure will provide a dynamic look that can be lit for evening activities and nighttime flying. Phase I incorporates a small, covered entry canopy for shelter from the sun and rain and an outdoor landscape that can be used for spectators to view testing and competition. The projected cost is $4.3 million
Phase II
The second phase will include enclosing the structure with curtain wall glass and a standing seam roof to provide a temperature-controlled environment. Restrooms, support rooms, and a screened mechanical enclosure will also be added. The projected cost is $8.45 million, some of which includes an endowed director position, maintenance, and applied learning support for students.
Contact Us for More Information
Media Questions
Leah Lamunyon
Director of Marketing and Communications
College of Engineering, Wichita State University
leah.lamunyon@wichita.edu | (316) 978-6520
Sponsorship Questions
Magnus Assarson
Senior Director of Development (Engineering)
WSU Foundation and Alumni Engagement
magnus.assarson@wichita.edu | (316) 978-6842