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 values a world view he expressed aboard Apollo 11, “Houston, I’ve got the world in my window.” He believes 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 places a high value on one’s ability to communicate effectively. While Michael Collins appreciates the value of STEM education, he feels it is missing a component of strong communication skills. He advocates 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 coaching, building business skills, leadership development training, and professional insights based on real world experiences effectively preparing tomorrow’s leaders.
"As a family, we are honored to have the opportunity to be part of such a worthwhile program. The ASF Astronaut Scholars represent the legacy of the astronauts, exemplifying their character and drive. In meeting the Astronaut Scholars, you see first-hand the impact a program like this has on their careers and their personal development."
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:
ASF Scholar Technical Conference
Online Leadership Courses (with a certification program)
Scholar Meet-Up Events
Corporate Tours
Professional Networking Events
In-Person Discussions and Presentations on various professional topics
Examples of past experiences include:
Presentation by Barbara Barrett, Chairman of the Aerospace Corporation,
and newly nominated to be the next Secretary of the Air Force
NSF Panel Presentation about Research Opportunities
Discussions by astronauts about perseverance, failure, and teamwork
Special Behind the Scenes Industry Tours
Boston Scholar Meet-Up, including (dinner and discussion among 15 Astronaut Scholars)