Featured News
OWLS Aviation Science Team at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh
Texas State University at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh July 20 - 26, 2026, the largest aviation gathering in the world. The week-long event features thrilling daily air shows, attracting more than 700,000 attendees and 10,000 aircraft, which briefly turns the local control tower into the busiest on earth. The OWLS Aviation Science Team composed of two students, two faculty members, and a flight partner instructor have an exciting week showcasing TXST flight training pathways. To discover what it takes to launch your professional pilot career with us, explore the TXST OWLS Aviation Science Program.
ACCEYSS Summer Camps
From exploring the intersection of STEAAM + Horticulture (ages 5-12) to diving deep into STEM + AI (ages 5-17), our brilliant campers are spending Summer 2026 building curiosity, unlocking new talents, and fueling future careers in STEM. Every single student walks away with a well-deserved recognition of completion. A heartfelt THANK YOU to the incredible local organizations who are partnering with us to make it all happen.
OWLS @ Work Podcast Series: Workforce Ready
Host and OWLS Chair, Dr. Shetay Ashford-Hanserd, has powerful discussions with OWLS Advisory Council Members about current employment trends in Central Texas, in-demand skills, career pathways, adaptability, and lifelong learning.
- Episode 4 with John Navarrette: mastering adaptability and a dynamic mix of soft and technical skills is the true key to workforce readiness
- Episode 5 with Margaret Lindsey: discover how visionary programs shape student awareness, exploration, and training across Texas
- Episode 6 with Ted Groholske: insightful conversation bridging the gap between education and industry in the Texas Innovation Corridor
Listen on Apple, Spotify, or YouTube at OWLS @ Work Podcast.
Father and Son Graduate from the OWLS Master's Program Side-by-Side
During the Spring 2026 Commencement, the OWLS community witnessed a moment that beautifully captured the spirit of lifelong learning: a father and son crossing the stage together, each earning their Master's from the OWLS graduate program and celebrating a journey they shared. Walking side-by-side at commencement, they represented more than academic success. They embodied the values that define the OWLS community: dedication, resilience, and the power of support systems that lift us higher.
Grant-Funded Research for Aviation Students
Aviation students face unique academic, financial, and professional pressures, and their resilience is nothing short of remarkable. That’s why we’re proud to share a new grant‑funded research initiative led by Dr. Lei Xie, with co-principal investigators, Dr. Shailen Singh, and Mr. Donald Wimp, dedicated to understanding what helps aviation students stay motivated, cope effectively, and succeed.
This project explores two research questions:
• How do motivation and anxiety interact to influence aviation students' academic performance and learning outcomes?
• What coping strategies help aviation students manage stress and persist toward degree completion?
Through surveys and interviews, students will help the research team identify the motivational strengths and resilience skills that fuel success in aviation education. Their experiences will guide the development of evidence‑based strategies that support students' well‑being, persistence, and long‑term achievement.
Together, we’re building a future where aviation students, and the aviation workforce, are both high‑performing and psychologically healthy.
Publication Edited by Dr. Felix Quayson
With the publication of "Occupational Training in the Future of Work," Dr. Felix Quayson (Editor), Dr. Ruchie Kukde (Chapter Author), and Lecturers Noel Fuller (Chapter Author), and Arnob Saha (Chapter Author), contributed practical guidance and critical perspectives on the future of occupational training.
The book explores how societies can prepare people for meaningful careers in a rapidly changing world, asking an essential question: How can education and innovation work together to build a more adaptive and inclusive workforce?
Contributors from across academia, industry, and policy explored what it means to be “career-ready” in the 21st century.
Ryan McBroom Named Fulbright Semi-Finalist
The OWLS Department is thrilled to congratulate Ryan McBroom, one of our outstanding MEd students, on being named a Fulbright U.S. Student Program Semi-Finalist! This profound recognition is a powerful testament to his standing as a top scholar in his field. Ryan's dedication to academic excellence and impactful research embodies the core values of the OWLS Master's program. The Fulbright U.S. Student Program is the United States government’s premier international educational and cultural exchange program. Designed to build lasting connections between the people of the United States and other countries, it is one of the most prestigious and highly competitive fellowships in the world.
Congratulations to OWLS Student Awardees 2025 - 2026!
These students did not just get by. They pushed boundaries, conquered obstacles, and raised the bar for what is possible. These exceptional individuals truly embody what it means to strive for excellence. They serve as a powerful inspiration to our entire OWLS community. As our awardees take their next steps, we wish them nothing but the best. We know their bright futures will be filled with continued impact, leadership, and success!
OWLS @ Work Podcast Series: Alumni Journey
Host and OWLS Faculty and Graduate Coordinator, Dr. Cathy Cherrstrom, talks with OWLS Alumni about their academic journey with the OWLS Department.
- Episode 1 with Wendi Rios: leadership, personal growth, and lifelong learning
- Episode 2 with Erica Cepeda: from administrative assistant to program coordinator
- Episode 3 with Ibrahima Kande: from military service to his goal of becoming an attorney
Listen on Apple, Spotify, or YouTube at OWLS @ Work Podcast.