MetRocketry Represents TMU on the World Stage at IREC

This past week, Toronto Metropolitan University’s MetRocketry team took flight at the International Rocket Engineering Competition (IREC), held in Midland, Texas. Among 140 teams from around the world, MetRocketry stood out as one of only 12 Canadian teams, and one of just three in the ambitious 30,000ft two-stage rocket category.

Fifteen engineering students from TMU represented the team, spending long, intense hours in the desert sun, pushing their limits and making their school proud. For Aerostructures Lead, Isabella Furlan (3rd year, Aerospace Engineering), being part of the team has opened the door to experiences she could not have imagined.  “From managing extra parts to ensuring the rocket could withstand the Texas heat, we encountered issues no classroom could have prepared us for. These setbacks opened a new perspective on engineering for me and made me realize that minor details can mean the difference between launching and scrubbing. I'm extremely proud of my team for conquering these challenges and always maintaining a positive energy.”

This year’s launch vehicle, Aquila 2025, was a major leap forward. Standing 16 feet tall, it was both larger and more powerful than last year’s Deimos 2024, soaring significantly higher. The design featured improved aerostructures and a brand-new payload: a stabilized onboard camera system. For most members of the Payload subteam — many of whom were new — this marked their first ever hands-on experience at a competition of this scale.

Beyond the technical challenge, IREC offered a once-in-a-lifetime learning opportunity. Team members got to meet student rocketeers from across the globe, exchanging ideas with peers from the U.S., Europe, Asia, and South America. Whether it was learning about different engineering approaches or simply sharing stories under the Texas sun, it was an unforgettable experience of global collaboration, engineering passion, and cultural exchange.

Throughout the week, MetRocketry proudly represented TMU in vibrant blue and gold,  whether trekking across the launch site or chatting with other teams. Their cohesive look and infectious spirit made the team stand out as true ambassadors of Canadian engineering and TMU pride.

For Captain Nazem Eylji (Final year, Aerospace Engineering), competing at his third and final IREC, the competition marked the culmination of a year of perseverance and growth across the team; “Great success is often preceded by many failures. While this year may not have ended in victory, I am extremely proud of my team’s resilience and growth, and deeply grateful for the support of our faculty. With dedication, unwavering determination, and sheer will, we will achieve great accomplishments in the years to come.”

With Aquila 2025 now launched and lessons learned, the team is already setting their sights higher. Future plans include improving recovery systems, refining flight performance, and introducing canards — small aerodynamic surfaces that will enhance maneuverability and control for the next vehicle. The journey is far from over.