At KF Aerospace, we're passionate about aviation, but we're equally passionate about the people behind it. Whether it's mentoring new talent, sharing technical expertise, or supporting hands-on learning, we believe investing in the next generation is one of the most meaningful ways we can help strengthen Canada's aerospace industry. 

That's why we were proud to support the University of British Columbia Okanagan Aerospace Club this year as the team prepared for upcoming unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and rocketry competitions. 

The Jellyfish V2 is a student-built drone designed to support wildfire detection and response.

The opportunity began when Aerospace Club Team Lead, Owen Plumb, reached out looking for sponsorship. Before long, members of our engineering team were touring the club's on-campus lab, where students showcased the aircraft, rockets, and other aerospace projects they had designed and built themselves. 

The enthusiasm, creativity, and technical knowledge on display were truly impressive. The conversation quickly evolved into an exchange of ideas, with students and KF engineers discussing design concepts, manufacturing challenges, and real-world aerospace applications. 

That collaboration soon grew beyond sponsorship. 

During the visit, team leads Owen Plumb and Anne Forbes asked whether KF Aerospace could help manufacture several critical engine components for one of the club's rocketry projects. Our manufacturing and engineering teams were excited to help. 

Working alongside the students, our machine shop produced a series of precision aluminum components while also providing guidance on manufacturing methods, design refinements, and producing tight-tolerance parts. Throughout the project, students gained valuable insight into the realities of taking their designs from concept to production. 

"One of the best parts of this project was working directly with the students. You could see how eager they were to learn, ask questions, and understand why we do things a certain way," said Jeff Ruth, KF Aerospace's Machine Shop Lead. "If we can help bridge the gap between the classroom and the shop floor, that's a win for everyone."  

In total, KF Aerospace contributed more than 100 hours of machining time and engineering support, along with aluminum materials, which included an eight-inch-diameter billet that proved difficult for the team to source elsewhere. 

Projects like this demonstrate what's possible when industry and education work together. While the students gained hands-on experience working alongside experienced aerospace professionals, our team had the opportunity to connect with some of the brightest young minds entering the industry. It's these kinds of collaborations that help inspire innovation, strengthen our aerospace community, and prepare the workforce of tomorrow. 

We're proud to support the UBC Okanagan Aerospace Club and look forward to following the team's journey as they continue exploring the world of aerospace innovation.