Why apply for the inaugural cohort?
Our 20-month Launchpad Program provides you with a guided, one-stop shop for the tools you need to successfully navigate through fellowship and into practice, while also helping you prepare for Board Exam Part I and II.
Here’s what you need to qualify:
- Must be a PGY5 resident enrolled in a U.S.-based residency program
- Must be an active AAOS Member and maintain membership for the duration of the program
- Strong preference will be given to candidates who can attend the AAOS 2025 Annual Meeting (including associated costs)
- Must be able and willing to participate for the duration of the cohort (January 2025 through August 2026)
If you meet the qualifications outlined above, apply to become a Launchpad Crew Member by the Jan. 31 deadline. AAOS is focused on making meaningful Crew Member/Chief connections based on a number of factors from specialty to shared life circumstances and communication preferences, so please answer as thoroughly as possible!
“This program feels different in a good way. I’ve felt that I’m doing it all on my own, figuring it out on my own. This program is cohesive, concise, and a centralized place I could go for community, helpful content, and to look ahead.”
- Current PGY5 resident who participated in research that guided the development of Launchpad
Do you have what it takes to be a Crew Chief?
This inaugural program offers early career orthopaedic surgeons a brand-new volunteer leadership opportunity and chance to make a meaningful impact on the near-peer residents who are coming up in orthopaedic surgery just behind them.
Here is what you need to qualify:
- Early-career orthopaedic surgeon (up to 5 years post-training)
- Passionate about mentorship and supporting the next generation of surgeons
- Willing to engage in small group coaching sessions, networking events, and AAOS Annual Meeting activities
- Must be an active AAOS Member and maintain membership for the duration of the program
- Strong preference will be given to candidates who can attend the AAOS 2025 Annual Meeting (including associated costs)
- Must be able and willing to participate for the duration of the cohort (January 2025 through August 2026)