Breaking boundaries beyond Earth: Astronaut Christina Koch | International Women’s Day
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For International Women’s Day, we’re paying tribute to the pioneering spirit of Christina Koch, who is set to be the first woman to set foot on the moon, whilst emphasising the key role women play in STEM careers.
Friday 8th March 2024 marks International Women’s Day, a global celebration diversity and inclusion and the vital role women have played in building the world.
This year, we’re spotlighting one such women who is leading the way in STEM, Christina Koch.
Koch is an inspiring figure whose potential journey from the Earth’s surface to the lunar landscape serves as a testament to the incredible strides women have made in the STEM industry. She has defied the limits, reached for the stars, and paved the way for future generations, celebrating remarkable achievements and contributions globally. Morson continues to feel very passionate and devoted about this evolutionary movement, which gives female engineers an opportunity, advocate and platform to inspire more young women and girls to explore and pursue engineering and STEM careers.
Christina Koch was the first NASA female astronaut to break the record for the longest single spaceflight by a woman on a space mission, as well as being a part of the first all-female spacewalk. Koch said, “I think highlighting it as the first all-female EVA, [or] spacewalk, is important because seeing those milestones be broken tells us where we are at, and where we think the importance lies.” It marks not just a historic moment in space voyage but also displays the latest milestone in a line of pioneering women. Koch’s journey is a monumental achievement in space research, and an indication to the resilience and brilliance of women in STEM.
Christina Koch: Early years
Christina Koch’s journey to becoming an astronaut began in her early years. Growing up, she showed a keen interest in STEM subjects, and displayed an early curiosity for the mysteries of space. Koch’s academic journey paved the way for her future success, where she pursued a degree in electrical engineering, setting the stage for her groundbreaking career.
Upon entering the male-dominated world of engineering, Koch faced challenges that would deter many. Nevertheless, she embraced those hurdles, viewing them as stepping stones toward her goals. Koch’s passion for innovation and her determination to excel in a traditionally male-dominated field, fuelled her journey. From the classroom of North Carolina State University to the laboratory, Koch honed her engineering skills, demonstrating exceptional talent in problem-solving and project management. Her commitment to her craft set her apart, earning her respect and recognition among her peers and mentors. As she delved deeper into her studies, Koch discovered her desire for aerospace engineering, a passion that would eventually catapult her to the stars.
Navigating the next steps at NASA
In 2013, Christine Koch joined NASA, marking a pivotal moment in her career. Koch’s journey to becoming an astronaut was a testament to her solid dedication, as she underwent rigorous training, mastering the complexities of space travel and the intricacies of spacecraft systems.
The year 2020 witnessed a momentous occasion in space exploration as Christine Koch, alongside her fellow astronauts, embarked on a lunar mission. Koch’s name is etched in history and she’s now set to become the first women on the moon, a mission with Artemis II.
As we celebrate International Women’s Day, Christina Koch’s story serves as a beacon of motivation for women aspiring to reach new heights in STEM careers. Her journey underscores the limitless potential that exists when passion, perseverance, and talent converge.
“I think it’s inspiring because future space explores do need to see people who remind them of themselves.” (Christina Koch)
The Morson STEM Foundation aims to increase the talent pipeline for STEM careers by widening participation and creating pathways into education and training, helping provide a fertile environment for the next generation of people like Christina.
We continue to demonstrate its commitment to social mobility by establishing the Foundation to help engage talent of all ages and from regionally deprived communities with STEM subjects. By collaborating with businesses to understand their skills needs and aligning them with a strategy for creating career opportunities, The Morson STEM Foundation is developing skills, delivering social value, and creating brighter futures.
