Growing SC's Knowledge-Based Workforce
The McNAIR Aerospace Center is focused on workforce development through industry-supported research in the engineered materials field. Some applications of our research include thermoplastic composites, advanced air mobility, combustion, and automation.
Advanced Composites
With dedicated research team and state of the art composite manufacturing equipment, USC is pioneering cutting-edge material development and manufacturing processes for next-generation applications. Our research drives efficiency durability, sustainability, and performance, shaping the future of the advanced manufacturing industry.
Combustion
The main objective is to grow a world-class application-driven fundamental research endeavor, encompassing power generation, ground and air transportation, and chemical propulsion using fuels derived from both fossil and renewable energy resources.
Advanced Air Mobility
Our interdisciplinary approach integrates advanced composite manufacturing, aerodynamic design, battery design and implementation and infrastructure. We collaborate with industry to develop sustainable, efficient, advanced-air-mobility, solutions that meet urban and rural transportation needs.
Smart Manufacturing
To remain competitive while addressing workforce challenges, USC researchers explore cutting-edge automation technologies to drive efficiency and manufacturing productivity. Leveraging interdisciplinary expertise and a foundation of aerospace knowledge, we develop workflows, optimize processes, and construct physical prototypes using robotics, AI, and IOT to tackle real-world challenges.
Energy Conversion
We specializes in cutting-edge research on high-power, high-voltage, and high-frequency electrical power converters designed for diverse grid-connected applications. The lab is equipped with advanced AC and DC testing capabilities, enabling the testing of high-voltage converters under real-world conditions.
Smart Power
We leverage digital twin technology and advanced decision-making frameworks alongside hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing to transform naval systems and microgrid operations. Our integrated approach combines real-time simulation with hands-on experimentation, optimizing energy efficiency and reliability to develop robust, sustainable solutions for modern maritime power challenges.
“The road between South Carolina and space flight is not a very simple one, nor one filled with guarantees. In fact, the only guarantees to be found are those that reside in the unchallenged depths of one’s own determination.”
- Ronald E. McNair (1950-1986)
Our Partners
Partnerships are critical to our success. We engage with industry partners, universities and the S.C. Department of Commerce to create opportunities for investment and collaboration through manufacturing research.
