Dr. Jeanette Epps, A Trailblazer in Space Exploration, Retires from NASA
06 Jun 2025
APB exclusive speaker Dr. Jeanette Epps recently retired from NASA, concluding a remarkable 16-year career that broke barriers and inspired countless individuals. From her roots in Syracuse, New York, to her groundbreaking mission aboard the International Space Station, Dr. Epps’s incredible journey reflects an unwavering commitment to perseverance and excellence.
Dr. Epps was selected as a NASA astronaut in 2009 and completed rigorous training, including Russian language studies, spacewalk preparation, robotics, and T-38 jet piloting. Before joining NASA, she earned a Ph.D. in aerospace engineering from the University of Maryland and worked at Ford Motor Company, where she co-authored patents, and at the CIA as a Technical Intelligence Officer. In March 2024, Epps launched to the ISS aboard SpaceX's Crew-8 mission, spending 235 days conducting scientific research and maintenance as a flight engineer. Her mission marked her as the second Black woman to complete a long-duration stay on the ISS, highlighting her role in advancing diversity in space exploration.
An engaging and motivational keynote speaker, Dr. Epps draws from her unique experiences to offer invaluable insights into overcoming adversity, the importance of STEM education, the future of space exploration, and more.