The Astronaut Scholarship Foundation is honored to work with the family of astronaut Michael Collins to present The Michael Collins Family Professional Development Program. Michael Collins valued a world view he expressed aboard Apollo 11, “Houston, I’ve got the world in my window.” He believed that all of us can have the world in our window.

If our future leaders—including the Astronaut Scholars—could see their planet from a great distance, their outlook would be fundamentally changed. This outlook’s meaning can only be fully understood if communicated both verbally and in writing. For this reason, Michael Collins placed a high value on one’s ability to communicate effectively. While Michael Collins appreciated the value of STEM education, he felt it was missing a component of strong communication skills. He advocated changing STEM to STEEM (the additional “E” for “Eloquence”).

Astronaut Scholars are remarkably driven, rank at the top of their class, and are exceptionally focused and resourceful, especially in their fields of expertise. Through their research and entrepreneurial spirit, Astronaut Scholars change the world and drive innovation. The Michael Collins Family Professional Development Program provides support throughout their careers through coaching, building business skills, leadership development training, and professional insights based on real world experiences effectively preparing tomorrow’s leaders.

The Michael Collins Family Professional Development Program instructs scholars in specific topics and provides experiences that will both provide them with the tools they need to develop into strong professional leaders, as well as self-assured adults.

The program consists of the following features:

Astronaut Scholar Technical Conference
Regional Astronaut Scholar Meet-Up Events
Industry Tours
Exclusive Astronaut Talks and Meet & Greets
Professional Networking Events
Astronaut Scholar Speaking Opportunities
Astronaut Scholar Poster Presentations
Professional Expo
Exclusive Professional Development Presentations
(in-person and virtual)