NASA astronaut Eileen Collins reveals encouraging perspective and insight on the leadership skills needed to break barriers and become a successful pioneer in your own right.

One of America’s most admired women, Col. Collins became the first female to pilot a U.S. spacecraft with the Discovery shuttle flight in 1995, and the first female commander on the 1999 Columbia shuttle flight. In 2005, NASA tapped Col. Collins to command the space shuttle Discovery’s historic “Return to Flight” mission, NASA’s first piloted flight following the loss of space shuttle Columbia in 2003.

While logging 872 hours in space, Col. Collins earned a reputation for coolness under pressure. With that same calm demeanor, she shares how her career as an astronaut took shape, from her early years in the U.S. Air Force to her ground-breaking experience with NASA. Her memoir, Through the Glass Ceiling to the Stars, was published in 2021. In 2022, Col. Collins was awarded the National Aeronautic Association’s Wright Brothers Award for her inspirational career as an astronaut, teacher and leader. She is also honored as a 2025 inductee into the Living Legends of Aviation.

Collins explores the essential elements of effective leadership - managing people, learning from mistakes, prioritizing safety and fostering creativity in complex environments. Drawing on the depth of her career experiences, Eileen shares candid insights shaped by both her successes and her setbacks. She highlights the power of collaboration in achieving ambitious goals and reflects on what it takes to lead with clarity and resilience in dynamic, high-stakes settings. Her perspective offers practical wisdom and inspiration for anyone looking to chart their own bold and original path.

Joe Lazer is an award‑winning marketing leader and author who helps businesses strengthen relationships with their clients, communicate value clearly, and drive measurable impact.

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