My Aerospace Career

Leslie Wickman, Ph.D.

OverviewVarious human engineering and aerospace projects for ergonomic design, operations, flight crew systems, and life sciences

• HST and ISS• USAF fighter pilot training

study for the RAND Corporation• NASA Crew Exploration Vehicle

project• Lunar life support system

requirements study Lectured around the world on satellite servicing, astronaut operations, mission planning, and space physiology issues

Growing up years…

Dad’s backyard telescope…

Education• High School diploma,

Seaside High School, Seaside, Oregon;concentration in math, science, and writing classes.

• Bachelor of Arts, Political Science, Willamette University, Salem, Oregonconcentration in international relations, math, and science; graduated magna cum laude.

• Master of Science, Aeronautical/Astronautical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA.

• Doctor of Philosophy, Human Factors and Biomechanics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA.

Internships

• Oregon State Legislative Committee on Trade & Economic Development– Research potential for existing and potential industries in

Oregon to develop trade relations with the People’s Republic of China.

• United States Department of State, Office of Soviet Affairs– Investigate visa requests for visiting Soviet dignitaries;

researched Soviet defections; participate in international policy discussions.

• Willamette University, Computer Center– Assistant Operations Manager; help students with

programming and operational problems.• Marin Covenant Church

– Youth Director; organize and lead youth activities, programs, and Bible studies.

• San Marin High School– Boys and Girls Assistant Track Coach, jump and hurdle events.

• McClean Logging & Construction– Safety supervisor and engineering aide on forestry crew; read

plans and drawings, survey, operate heavy logging and construction equipment, enforce safety policies.

Volleyball, basketball, track, football

Stanford UniversityNASA Ames Research Center

Lockheed Martin

Hubble Space Telescope

International Space Station

Astronaut training…

Specialized Training

• Over 100 hours of test time in Space Shuttle Extravehicular Mobility Unit (spacesuit).

• Extensive space simulation experience (300+ hours).• FAA Private Pilot• T-33• KC-135 reduced-gravity• USAF High Altitude Physiology• Parachute• NAUI SCUBA dive training• CPR/First Aid

Fountains of Bellagio…

Think Tanks:SRI, RAND, & The Aerospace Corporation

Wickman Enterprises

Azusa Pacific University

Current Research• Lunar/Mars Life Support Systems

– Water reclamation/regeneration– Planetary exploration

• Crew Exploration Vehicle– Shuttle replacement– Moon missions– Mars missions

• Crew Anthropometry and Volume Studies• Impact of Global Warming on National

Security Issues

CLOSING ADVICE:• Work hard in school

• Try lots of different activities:

• Math, Science, Writing, Art, Music, Sports

• Figure out what you really like to do, and what

you’re good at

• “Sweet Spot”

• Develop your strengths, and work on your

weaknesses

• Make the most of every good opportunity that

comes your way

• Take responsibility for yourself and your actions

• Be kind and respectful toward others

• Follow the “Golden Rule”

• Pursue your dreams!