Pathways to Space: Becoming an Astronaut in the New Space Age with Dave Leestma

Kathy Sullivan Explores

David Cornell Leestma is a retired Captain of the U.S. Navy and former astronaut. He graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy first in his class in 1971 and completed his flight training in 1973. In 1980, Dave was selected by NASA to become an astronaut and would go on to log a total of 532.7 hours in space. He served as a mission specialist on STS-41-G (1984), STS-28 (1989), and STS-45 (1992)—in the STS-41-G and STS-45 missions, he was aboard with Kathy Sullivan. Dave currently serves as the Manager for the Technology Transfer and Commercialization Office at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas.

Today, you’ll hear Dave and I discuss his experience with the NASA astronaut selection process and why he thinks he got selected by the board. He shares insight into the growth of private space companies and what they mean for aspiring astronauts. He highlights the value of diplomatic skills and foreign language proficiency in organizations like NASA. You’ll also learn what it takes to become an astronaut in the new space age and receive advice for carving an educational path toward the space industry.

“In my selection process, I think my flying background helped—but it isn’t just about flying; it’s also about having an adventurous spirit and a willingness to be independent and do uncomfortable things.” - Dave Leestma

This week on Kathy Sullivan Explores:

● Dave’s journey in the 1980 NASA selection pool and what he thinks put him at the top

● The value of having discipline, independence, and an adventurous spirit in the NASA application process

● The importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion

● How the criteria for the NASA selection process has changed

● Dave’s thoughts on being part of NASA’s astronaut selection board

● Why diplomacy and foreign language skills are an asset

● How the growth of private space companies is changing the paradigm in space exploration and science

● How private space companies might select and recruit talent for their organizations

● Skills, trades, and talents NASA would look for beyond Artemis

● Dave’s take on space tourism and his advice to young people who want to join the space industry

Our Favorite Quotes:

● “If you can be disciplined in the little things like making your bed, you can be disciplined in other things. That leads to a desire to succeed.” - Dave Leestma

● “Being an astronaut means being uncomfortable with some parts of it.” - Dave Leestma

● “Astronauts, in general, are jacks of all trades and not necessarily masters of one. You may have a degree in Geology, but you can also do an EVA and all kinds of things.” - Dave Leestma

Related Content:

● At the Oscars with George Lucas

Connect with Dave Leestma:

● Dave Leestma on LinkedIn

Spaceship Not Required

I’m Kathy Sullivan, the only person to have walked in space and gone to the deepest point in the ocean.

I’m an explorer, and that doesn’t always have to involve going to some remote or exotic place. It simply requires a commitment to put curiosity into action.

In this podcast, you can explore, reflecting on lessons learned from life so far and from my brilliant and ever-inquisitive guests. We explore together in this very moment from right where you are--spaceship not required.

Welcome to Kathy Sullivan Explores.

Visit my website at kathysullivanexplores.com to sign up for seven astronaut tips to improving your life on earth and be the first to discover future episodes and learn about more exciting adventures ahead!

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