National Academy of Engineering 2026 Regional Meeting
Duke University | May 19-21, 2026
Smarter Skies, More Resilient Systems: The Future of Commercial Aviation
The National Academy of Engineering Regional Event at Duke University will convene leading experts from industry, government, and academia to explore next-generation challenges and solutions in aviation, including:
- Climate and weather-related considerations
- Innovation and emerging technologies
- Air traffic control and operational advancements
Keynote Speakers
John-Paul Clarke
Professor – Ernest Cockrell, Jr. Memorial Chair in Engineering
Michimasa Fujino
Former President and CEO of Honda Aircraft Company
Captain Jim Graham
Senior Vice President – Delta Connection and CEO of Endeavor Air for Delta Air Lines
Confirmed Speakers
Earl H. Dowell, PhD
William Holland Hall Professor, Pratt School of Engineering, Duke University
Alan Epstein, PhD
R.C. Maclaurin Professor of Aeronautics and Astronautics Emeritus, Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Gabriel G. Katul, PhD
George Pearsall Distinguished Professor, Civil and Environmental Engineering, Duke University
Jesse Quinlan, PhD
Branch Head, Aeronautics Systems Analysis Branch
Michael Todd, PhD
Professor and Department Chair, Structural Engineering, UC San Diego
Claire Tomlin, PhD
James and Katherine Lau Chair in Engineering, Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences, UC Berkeley
Tentative Schedule
Additional details and registration information coming soon.
Tuesday, May 19
Optional afternoon tours at Duke and in the RDU area, followed by an evening welcome reception
Wednesday, May 20
Full-day conference session and evening dinner
Thursday, May 21
Morning sessions and poster session, concluding by noon
