Harvard Aerospace & Defense Alumni Organization

Transformative programs, initiatives, and events for the Aerospace and Defense community

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Our Story

Harvard Aerospace and Defense Alumni Organization (HADAO) is a vibrant community that connects Harvard alums and Friends of Harvard who share a passion for exploring and innovating in the aerospace, aviation, and defense industries.

Our organization was initially founded at Harvard Business School, where a group of forward-thinking individuals identified the need for an aerospace association. Since then, HADAO has grown into a robust and diverse organization that spans all degree-granting schools at Harvard University. Our core mission is to foster a strong network of Harvard alums and Friends of Harvard who are passionate about exploring the ever-evolving world of aerospace and defense.

At HADAO, we are committed to providing a communication and gathering platform for our members to connect, collaborate, and exchange ideas. We pride ourselves on the global reach of our community, with members from all over the world bringing their unique cultures and experiences to the table. Connecting our members can create new opportunities for innovation, growth, and impact in these exciting fields.

Programs and Ways to Give

Hybrid Museum

Support a hybrid virtual museum showcasing the history and achievements of the aerospace & defense industry.

Scholarship Program

Support the next generation of leaders in the aerospace & defense fields through financial support and mentorship.

Space Shelters

Support developing innovative, sustainable, and efficient shelter solutions for use on Mars and beyond.

Why Partner with us?

One of HADAO’s main objectives is to translate academic research into practical applications and products that benefit society. This involves working with researchers, industry partners, and other stakeholders to identify promising research projects and technologies, secure funding and partnerships, and develop strategies to bring research innovations to the market. HADAO also creates and implements programs and initiatives that support entrepreneurship and innovation among faculty, staff, and students. This includes training, mentorship, networking opportunities, and facilitating access to funding and other resources for startup companies and other entrepreneurial ventures.

One of HADAO’s exciting opportunities is its focus on developing practical space shelters for the lunar surface and red planet. This aligns with private sector interests in developing cost-effective space technologies with a significant ROI on planet Earth. HADAO’s partnerships with private companies can offer access to a talented pool of individuals with diverse skills and experiences. Additionally, HADAO’s focus on creating the Hybrid Museum provides an opportunity to engage with the public and showcase the significance and progress of the aerospace and defense industries. HADAO’s scholarship program for Harvard students also offers opportunities to partner with public entities and support the next generation of leaders in these fields.

Moreover, HADAO’s focus on advancing the aerospace, aviation, and defense industries provides research collaborations and knowledge exchange opportunities. Academic institutions partnering with HADAO can gain access to a community of experienced professionals with deep knowledge and expertise in these industries.

In summary, private, public, and academic partners can benefit from partnering with HADAO by accessing a community of individuals with unique perspectives and experiences and engaging with projects focused on advancing the aerospace, aviation, and defense industries, as well as promoting the commercialization of academic research and supporting the development of a vibrant innovation ecosystem within the institution and the broader community.

Learn about our transformative projects

Mars Studio - AUB

The project between the AUB Faculty of Engineering and Architecture is to develop innovative solutions for sustainable living on Mars.

Mars Studio - UofC

The project between the University of Calgary's Faculty of Environmental Design offered a Master's Degree course on designing sustainable shelters on the Red Planet.

Moon Race – Team Chile

The project between Google Lunar XPRIZE (Team Chile) to launch a rover to the lunar surface to deepen our understanding of the Moon.

Featured event

GNN: Aerospace and Defense

March 16, 2023 | 4:00–5:00 p.m. EDT | Virtual

Register now to reconnect with friends and classmates and expand your Harvard network. Connect your social media accounts to the guest list to connect with other attendees more easily before, during, and after the event.

Register now

Find out more about how we do it and how you can give.

What is HADAO doing about climate change?

As an organization focused on the aerospace and defense industries, HADAO is not directly involved in climate change initiatives. However, HADAO may collaborate with other

Join others in supporting our programs!

Programs

Hybrid Museum

Support a hybrid virtual museum showcasing the history and achievements of the aerospace & defense industry.

Scholarship Program

Support the next generation of leaders in the aerospace & defense fields through financial support and mentorship.

Space Shelters

Support developing innovative, sustainable, and efficient shelter solutions for use on Mars and beyond.

Events

Any upcoming events will show here soon.