Who can apply as a Crew Chief?
Is the AAOS Launchpad program a member benefit?
Who do I contact if I still have questions about the AAOS Launchpad?
What is AAOS Launchpad?
The AAOS Launchpad is an exclusive pilot program designed to support PGY5 AAOS resident members as they transition from residency to fellowship and ultimately into practice, including preparation for Boards Part II. Spanning approximately 20 months, this immersive experience combines both in-person and virtual components, offering participants, called Crew Members, personalized guidance through access to expert coaches, called Crew Chiefs, who provide near-peer mentorship. As a pilot initiative, the program will evolve based on ongoing feedback from PGY5 participants throughout their experience.
Who can apply as a Crew Chief?
Early-career orthopaedic surgeons (0-5 years into practice) practicing in the U.S., who are passionate about mentorship and supporting the next generation of surgeons. Candidates must be an active AAOS member and maintain membership for the duration of the program (approximately January 2026 through August 2027). Strong preference will be given to applicants who can attend the 2026 and 2027 AAOS Annual Meetings, Monday through Thursday (including associated costs).
Who is not qualified?
Non-members, members who are further established in their career (practicing for more than 5 years), suspended members, members outside of the U.S.
Is the AAOS Launchpad program a member benefit?
Yes – the program itself is FREE (costs associated with attending the Annual Meeting are the responsibility of the participant). Participating in the program gives coaches a way to:
- Give Back: Share the guidance and mentorship you wish you had during your transition from fellowship to practice.
- Be Recognized: Establish yourself as a trusted voice and emerging leader in the orthopaedic community.
- Increase Your Visibility: Elevate your reputation through a high-profile AAOS program.
- Grow Your Network: Connect with residents, peers, and industry leaders to advace your career.
- Develop as a Leader: Stregthen your coaching, mentorship, and leadership skills.
- Shape the Future: Help residents pass boards, navigate fellowship, and launch successful careers.
- Earn AAOS Recognition: Your impact as a Launchpad Coach will be acknowledged by the Academy.
- Access Exclusive Opportunities: Join small-group coaching, elite networking, and leadership events at the AAOS Annual Meeting.
How does it work?
STEP 1: Apply to be a Crew Chief in the second Cohort (2026-2027) of the AAOS Launchpad program at aaos.org/launchpad.
STEP 2: Attend both the Pre-Annual Meeting Coaches Orientation Webinar and the Launchpad Kick-off Webinar.
- Coaches Orientation Webinar: Meet your fellow Cohort 2 Crew Chiefs, get a high-level overview of the Launchpad program and expectations, and have your questions answered.
- Launchpad Kick-off Webinar: Get introduced to the PGY5 participants in the AAOS Launchpad and connect with the members of your specific Sub Crew.
STEP 3: Arrive at Annual Meeting and check-in at the on-site AAOS Launchpad Lounge to receive your schedule of events and programming, including an exclusive Launchpad Reception!
STEP 4: Post-Annual Meeting, look-out for an email with instructions on the ~4 virtual sessions that will take place over the course of the program (ending in August 2027).
Who do I contact if I still have questions about the AAOS Launchpad?
Email: launchpad@aaos.org
Call: AAOS Service Center at 847-823-7186