Rate My Professor Nate Callender

Callender's academic interests focus on aerodynamics of rotating bodies and Magnus effect lift, unmanned aerial systems (UAS) noise reduction, propeller sound pressure levels, engine-out glide performance, and aviation simulator training. Key publications include "A pilot’s guide to the engine-out glide: the effect of wind on best glide speed" (Collegiate Aviation Review International, 2025), "Innovation in engine-out glide performance from sawtooth descent testing of a Beechcraft Bonanza" (Society of Flight Test Engineers Symposium, 2023), "Pilot’s guide to maximum glide performance: optimum bank angles in gliding turns" (Collegiate Aviation Review International, 2023), "Sound pressure level measurements with standard and low noise propellers on a Phantom 4 Pro+" (Current Trends in Engineering Science, 2022), and "UAS propeller/rotor sound pressure level reduction through leading edge modification" (Journal of Applied Mechanical Engineering, 2017). He has earned the MTSU Faculty Senate Faculty Contribution to Research Award (2025), Outstanding Honors Faculty Award (2018), MTSU Foundation Outstanding Teacher Award (2016), Influential Faculty Member from Phi Kappa Phi (2014, 2016), and multiple Outstanding EXL Collaborations awards (2007–2025). Callender coordinates the Aerospace Technology Concentration, created and operates the Aerospace Technology Laboratory, developed aerodynamics advanced camps, mentors students for graduate engineering programs, chairs department and university committees including the Honors Council, and teaches courses such as aerodynamics (AERO 3440) and aircraft performance (AERO 4440).