At FacFox, we take pride in empowering the next generation of innovators through advanced manufacturing technologies. This year, we are honored to support the University of Toronto Aerospace Team (UTAT) – Rocketry Division as a Silver Tier Sponsor.
UTAT Rocketry is a dedicated group of engineering students who design, build, and launch experimental high-powered sounding rockets at annual competitions across Canada and the USA. The team has already made history by launching the first-ever experimental hybrid rocket on Canadian soil and winning first place in the Advanced Category at the inaugural Launch Canada Competition in 2022.
Partnering for Innovation
The partnership began when Jocelyn Wall, Business Development Lead at UTAT Rocketry, reached out to FacFox to explore how additive manufacturing could make their rocket parts lighter, stronger, and competition-ready. Recognizing the potential of their ambitious projects, FacFox committed to the Silver Sponsorship package, offering in-kind support through our metal and plastic 3D printing services.
Soon after, the collaboration moved into practice. UTAT Rocketry identified critical bulkhead and engine components suitable for DMLS aluminum 3D printing (AlSi10Mg) with post-processing, including heat treatment and CNC machining. These parts are integral to the development of their liquid rocket, which the team aspires to make the first liquid rocket launched in Canada.
FacFox on the Rocket
As part of the sponsorship, the FacFox logo proudly appeared on UTAT’s hybrid rocket, launched at the 2024 Launch Canada Competition. The team later shared updates and photos highlighting our brand on their vehicle, reinforcing how industry-academia partnerships fuel innovation in aerospace.
Engaging Beyond Manufacturing
In addition to technical collaboration, FacFox was invited to UTAT Rocketry’s Fall 2025 Showcase, hosted at the University of Toronto’s historic Hart House. The event featured past projects, including the record-breaking hybrid rocket that set a Canadian altitude record for an SRAD engine, subsystem booths, and opportunities for sponsors to connect with team members.
The showcase was a great success, drawing students, faculty, industry partners, and curious community members. For us, it was an opportunity to see firsthand how our sponsorship directly contributes to cutting-edge student-led aerospace projects.
Looking Ahead
The University of Toronto Aerospace Team Rocketry Division continues to push the boundaries of student rocketry with bold targets — including reaching 30,000 ft at Mach 2 and pioneering Canada’s first student-designed liquid rocket launch. FacFox is proud to contribute our additive manufacturing expertise to this journey.
We believe collaborations like this demonstrate the power of 3D printing in aerospace innovation, from reducing weight and improving strength to accelerating prototyping and testing cycles. More importantly, it shows how advanced manufacturing can inspire and equip the engineers of tomorrow.
FacFox congratulates the UTAT Rocketry team on their achievements and looks forward to supporting their next big milestones.
Leave A Comment