Anstati

Anstati is a warlike, industrial plannet within the inner ring. Strong commerce ties with planets in Core Narcissium fuel Anstati's internal conflct, and civil war ravages most of the surface. At least three major factions claim the leadership of Anstati, and foreign planets generally deal with them individually.

Anstatan Academy of Engineering
The AAE is perhaps the most well-known Anstatan institution, and despite the planet's turmoil, thousands of students travel from other systems to study under the battle-hardened practical engineering professors. Graduates of the AAE commonly become industrial leaders in their home systems, and many go on to create devastating advances in military science.

Each year, the AAE takes on approximately 10,000 students from both local areas and abroad. Selection is based on a vigorous exam involving practical skills, theoretical skills, and science history knowledge. Those who pass the exam are invited to interview with the academy board to ascertain their devotion to the craft and their ability to communicate concepts with their equals.

Canaries
Perpetual war between powers in possession of great military machines demands a significant mechanical workforce. Most of these mechanics operate on machines limping home from conflicts, and are able to operate in relatively well-equipped workshops. But some machines break down on the front lines, or under the firestorm of heavy artillery. This is where the canaries come in.

Brave, brazen, desperate, or just stupid, "canary" is the name given to the front line of battle mechanics. These disposable workers charge headfirst into active war zones and repair machines damaged in the line of fire so the (metaphorical) war machine can charge onwards into battle once again.

It is said that 1 in 50 canaries makes it home after an extended tour, and those who do receive no accolades.