Becoming aN IREC TEAM Mentor

ESRA is seeking Mentors to help guide Student Teams

In previous years, ESRA required teams to identify a Flier of Record (FoR) in their IREC Application. Each team had to designate a Tripoli Level 3 flier who would commit to attending the competition and sign their flight card.

Beginning this cycle, ESRA is updating that process. Teams are now required to identify Mentors in their application—individuals who can provide guidance in the specific areas where the team needs project support. Unlike FoRs, Mentors do not need to be Tripoli L3, high‑power certified, or even members of Tripoli. NAR membership is acceptable, and mentors without any organizational membership are also welcome. Most importantly, Mentors are not required to attend the competition.

FoRs remain an important part of the launch process, but teams may identify their FoR later in the season once their project is further along.

This change has two primary goals:

  • Provide earlier, more targeted support so teams receive the guidance they need during the critical early phases of design, fabrication, and testing—improving their likelihood of successfully reaching the competition.

  • Expand the pool of potential mentors to include individuals who want to support student rocketry but cannot commit to spending a full week at the competition site months in advance.

Here are examples of the types of mentors teams need:

  • New or rebuilding teams often need experienced high‑power rocketeers who can guide them through fundamental project requirements—designing larger rockets, sourcing components, applying proper construction techniques, maintaining safety practices, and meeting IREC‑specific design standards.

  • Teams with design experience but no IREC history benefit from mentors who have attended previous competitions, either as a Flyer of Record (FoR) or as a former competitor.

  • Teams pursuing SRAD (Research) motors require qualified motor builders who can provide expertise in design, fabrication, and safe testing.

  • Teams with specialized project goals—such as two‑stage vehicles or hybrid propulsion—need mentors with experience in those specific areas.

  • International teams often need mentors from their home countries who can assist with visas, travel logistics, and university administrative requirements.

  • Many teams need support with fundraising or navigating university purchasing systems and procurement policies.

ESRA encourages teams to identify mentors who can meaningfully support their success. If you are interested in mentoring an IREC team, please fill out the form below.

Mentor/Flyer of RecorD (FOR) Interest Form

Students will review the mentor/FoR information that you submit and will contact you directly if they are interested in having you serve as a mentor. If you wish to remove your information from the directory, please email launchsafety@esrarocket.org