The Louisiana Tech Research Institute announced on May 8 that it hosted a signing day for the Air Force Global Strike Command National Security Fellowship, highlighting Louisiana Tech University students chosen to contribute to military research and innovation.
The National Security Fellowship program is a joint initiative between the Air Force Global Strike Command, Louisiana Tech Applied Research Corporation, and the Cyber Innovation Center. The program aims to give undergraduate and graduate students in Northeast Louisiana experience in national security issues while supporting local economic growth.
For the 2026-2027 academic year, fellows from Louisiana Tech will work on projects at Barksdale Air Force Base and collaborate with peers from South Dakota School of Mines and Technology working at Ellsworth Air Force Base. Warren Ward, LTRI chief of staff and LTARC CEO, said, “This year will be the first time the program has expanded beyond Northwest Louisiana. While the LTRI team will provide administrative program oversight, our mentorship includes periodic opportunities to learn about the U.S. national security structure, AFGSC, and to hear about historic airpower accomplishments.”
Students expressed enthusiasm about contributing directly to projects that may be used by military personnel. Drew McKee, a Mechanical Engineering major who is also an ROTC member, said, “As a member of ROTC, it’s exciting to work with individuals who are in active duty and creating products that will be used in the future. This opportunity really makes me hone in on my engineering degree.” Xavier Session added: “The fellowship program gives us opportunities to create something new. Building a project from start to finish and having the military potentially use a product I helped create is extremely gratifying.”
Though specific projects remain confidential at this stage, participants emphasized both networking opportunities with military professionals and personal growth potential through hands-on experiences. Caleb Davis noted his anticipation for upcoming collaborations: “The projects are understandably kept confidential, but networking with the military and the companies involved makes me look forward to what’s ahead.” Hannah Hutson commented on her unique perspective as a Sport and Exercise Psychology master’s student: “My work centers on how to use your mind in high-pressure situations… I’m eager to gain hands-on experience and explore how my major can go beyond an athletic background.”
Warren Ward concluded by saying that fellows would develop skills in innovation and problem-solving while gaining appreciation for national defense efforts: “Through this program, the fellows emerge with a strong appreciation of national defense. They will gain experience solving real-world problems under the guidance of uniformed Airmen and civil servants. They will also have the opportunity to formally brief senior AFGSC officials. These individuals will be highly competitive for careers in the U.S. government and defense industries.” Recruitment for next year’s cohort opens September 2026.
