Shreya Chandra Receives 20 Twenties Award

Shreya Chandra, a senior mechanical and aerospace engineering major at the University of California, Davis, has been selected for the 2026 20 Twenties Awards program by Aviation Week Network in collaboration with Accenture.

Every year, Aviation Week Network inducts 20 of the brightest, most driven aerospace-bound STEM students in their 20s into the 20 Twenties program. Since its launch in 2013, the 20 Twenties program has honored 220 exceptional STEM students from 192 schools in 39 countries. This initiative brings together technology hiring managers, students, and educators to foster academic and professional excellence. This year, the winners were selected from 60 nominees from 20 schools representing 13 countries.

“Congratulations to the 20 Twenties Class of 2026! We are so inspired by the achievements and potential of these exceptional students,” said Greg Hamilton, President of Aviation Week Network. “We are looking forward to honoring these rising stars in March and following and supporting their success as they begin their careers in our essential industry.”

John Schmidt, Global Aerospace and Defense industry lead at Accenture, said, “Congratulations to this year’s winners — an inspiring group whose achievements in STEM will help shape the future of aerospace and defense. Accenture is proud to support the 20 Twenties program, which not only celebrates academic excellence and community impact, but also champions the next generation of innovators creating lasting value for our industry and wider society.”

“It's an incredible honor to be named a 20 Twenties recipient,” said Chandra. “I'm grateful for the recognition and for the people who supported the work behind it. This program raises the visibility of my work within the aviation and space community. I’m excited about the conversations and opportunities this will lead to that wouldn't have otherwise happened.”

Chandra and her fellow winners are invited to attend the 20 Twenties Awards Luncheon on March 19. They will then be honored that same day during Aviation Week Network’s 68th Annual Laureate Awards and Dinner at the National Building Museum in Washington, D.C.

The 20 Twenties program is a significant part of Aviation Week Network’s workforce initiative that continues to cultivate, inform and inspire the next generation of aerospace and defense professionals.

Meet the 2026 class of 20 Twenties Winners on Aviation Week Network