Former University of Tennessee, Knoxville quarterback Joshua Dobbs participated in the AIAA Design/Build/Fly competition, where student teams raced to construct and launch small, tube-launched aircraft capable of carrying a payload through a demanding flight course. Dobbs and his teammates pulled multiple all-nighters to design and repair their plane, overcoming crashes, challenging desert winds, and tight deadlines to complete successful flights. Despite their lack of experience, the team finished 30th overall, outperforming several powerhouse schools. Dobbs, who is also studying aerospace engineering, said the intense experience pushed their limits and offered a glimpse into real-world military aviation challenges.
Dobbs’ passion for aviation began early, fueled by family trips to airports and a youth program hosted by Tuskegee Airmen Inc. Balancing his athletic and academic pursuits, Dobbs has excelled on and off the field, earning accolades in football, giving back to the community, and being recognized as a University of Tennessee Torchbearer. Though his immediate focus shifted to his NFL career with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Dobbs remains committed to aerospace and plans to return to aviation in the future. He sees strong parallels between engineering and quarterbacking, especially in the problem-solving and preparation both fields demand.
Read the full article from Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association here.