From hidden figures to leading lights, these women are shaping the future of space exploration. This Aug. 24, 2018 installment of our ongoing Thought Leader Series features NASA Johnson Space Center External Relations Office Director Debbie Conder, Human Health and Performance Director Catherine Koerner and Exploration Integration and Science Director Vanessa Wyche.

Part of Space Center Houston’s core purpose is to put everyone on the STEM pathway. See how space exploration fuels curiosity through the lens of these remarkable women and their achievements.

Conder’s office is at the forefront of visibility into human spaceflight – recording mission activities and special events, organizing media briefings, public ceremonies, creative exhibits, outreach programs, speaker’s bureau, public inquiries, student and teacher programs and visitor center engagement.

Koerner’s Human Health & Performance Directorate is the primary organization focused on enhancing crew health and performance and mitigating risks associated with human spaceflight. This includes space and clinical operations; biomedical research and environmental sciences; human systems engineering and development; strategic planning, benchmarking and collaboration; and open innovation.

Wyche’s Exploration Integration and Science Directorate is a multi-disciplined organization of civil servants and contractors. They enable human and robotic exploration of deep space leading to missions to Mars, while utilizing the International Space Station as a test bed for advanced technology.