Collaboration with academia

It is the sense of Congress that— (1) colleges and universities are hubs of research and innovation, with expertise in various fields of science and aeronautics; (2) collaborating with academia allows NASA to access cutting-edge research and expertise that can further enable advancements in aeronautics research and technology and address complex aeronautical challenges; (3) a cutting-edge civil aeronautics research and development program can inspire the next generation to pursue education and careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, including aeronautics; and (4) opportunities for students to participate in NASA-supported academic research and development projects, such as the University Leadership Initiative, the University Students Research Challenge, and related aeronautic projects and competitions, contributes to training the next generation and developing the aeronautics workforce to support continued United States leadership and economic growth in civil aeronautics and aviation.