launch·pad 
/ˈlɑ:ntʃˌpæd/ noun
plural launch·pads /ˈlɑ:ntʃˌpæd/ noun [count] : an area from which a rocket is launched — often used figuratively ▪ The program she hosted on local radio was the launchpad for her network career. [=it was the first step that led to her network career] —called also launching pad
