Mods: please move where relevant (if indeed it's relevant anywhere!).

As many of you know, I used to work for NASA and I now work for the European Space Agency. I thought it would be fun to share a bit of info I've come across while working with plenty of astronauts over the years. Obviously, there are tons of astronauts who are PhDs in various science fields. Even the military test pilots who become shuttle pilots and commanders have at least masters degrees in engineering fields. To the surprise of most, myself included, there are a few astronauts with MBAs as well.

Steve Smith - Stanford (1987). I've known Steve since 2003 and he's simply an awesome guy. It is worth noting that he got his MBA before becoming an astronaut. He and I have spoken about his MBA experience on many occasions and he's been very helpful on all accounts. None of that resulted in a Stanford admit, but it was a long-shot anyway

Bob Thirsk - MIT (1998). I just met Bob a few weeks ago; he's currently on loan from the Canadian Space Agency to the European Space Agency where he's working as a CAPCOM (Capsule Communicator) - the guy on the ground who talks to the astronauts in space. Seems like a very cool guy.

Greg Johnson - Texas (2005). Greg is in space as I type this. According to his bio, he received the McCombs School of Business Dean’s Award for Academic Excellence in 2005. He did this while working as an astronaut. Not too shabby (Don't they say you're not supposed to have a job during your first year!?).

There are probably a few more but I'm not familiar with them.

Just thought I'd share,
TL

Toploader - very cool. Thanks for sharing! As you may be able to tell from my name, I am a HUGE space fan. HUGE! I'm thinking that if this whole MBA thing doesn't work out, I'll be an astronaut. Actually I'm hoping to eventually get into Boeing to do corporate finance/M&A/strategy (since they're in Chicago and I don't plan to move out of Chicago - kinda limits me). I'd love to hear about your experiences working for NASA and ESA when you have some time! (I know, free time - don't laugh! )

Interesting info, Kudos!

I know you applied to Sloan, have you considered the dual degree with the Harvard Kennedy School, as you work for an agency??? Just thinking here...
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