Chris Hadfield Keynote Speaker
- First Canadian to command the International Space Station in 2013.
- Best-selling author of An Astronaut’s Guide to Life on Earth, You Are Here, and The Darkest Dark.
- Former fighter pilot and test pilot, flying various types of aircraft.
Chris Hadfield's Biography
Chris Hadfield, one of the most accomplished astronauts and test pilots of his generation, is internationally renowned for his pioneering work in space exploration and his ability to inspire millions with his leadership, insights, and storytelling. As the first Canadian to command the International Space Station (ISS) in 2013, Hadfield gained global recognition for his scientific achievements, his ability to communicate the wonders of space to the public, and his viral social media presence, including his famous performance of David Bowie’s Space Oddity from space.
With a distinguished career that spans more than three decades, Hadfield has become an influential figure in science and technology, space exploration, and leadership. A former fighter pilot and test pilot, Chris flew various types of aircraft before joining the Canadian Space Agency as an astronaut in 1992. He became the first Canadian to walk in space in 1995 and the first astronaut to operate the Canadarm. During his tenure, he flew on three space missions, including serving as the mission commander of Expedition 35 aboard the ISS, where he was responsible for overseeing life aboard the station and conducting scientific research in the microgravity environment. Chris retired from the Canadian Space Agency in 2013, shortly after completing his third trip to space.
Hadfield’s experiences in space, including nearly 6,000 orbits around Earth, have shaped his philosophy on leadership, problem-solving, and teamwork, which he shares in his best-selling books An Astronaut’s Guide to Life on Earth, You Are Here, and The Darkest Dark among others. These books offer practical lessons on how to achieve personal and professional success by staying calm under pressure, embracing challenges, and learning from failure.
He holds a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from the Royal Military College in Kingston, Ontario. Before embarking on his astronaut career, Chris served as a tactical fighter pilot in the Canadian Armed Forces and was also NASA’s director of operations. With over 70 types of aircraft under his belt, he was recognized as a top test pilot by both the US Air Force and Navy. His exceptional skills earned him a place in Canada’s Aviation Hall of Fame.
Beyond his work as an astronaut, Hadfield is a sought-after speaker, educator, and advocate for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). His speeches blend humor, adventure, and profound insights, inspiring audiences to pursue their dreams, push the boundaries of innovation, and find opportunities for growth in even the most difficult circumstances. As a highly decorated astronaut, engineer, and pilot, Chris has numerous awards, including the Order of Canada, the Meritorious Service Cross, and the NASA Exceptional Service Medal.
Chris Hadfield's Speaking Topics
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Leadership and Risk Management in Extreme Environments
Commanding a spaceship takes superb leadership. Discover insights through Chris' tenure at the Royal Canadian Air Force and the Canadian Space Agency and NASA where he has developed and honed leadership theories and practices that have taken him to the very top. Explore strategic leadership tactics with examples from his own experiences as a US Navy top test pilot, NASA’s Director of Operations in Russia, and as a Commander of the International Space Station among others.
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Space Exploration and Innovation
Learn more about the business of space. As a leader and innovator of the business of space, Chris is the director of public and private companies: an advisor to SpaceX, Virgin Galactic, Astrolab, and Planet; chair of the Open Lunar Foundation; and many others. Explore insights into this growing industry and understand the factors that have contributed to its growth.
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Overcoming Challenges and Achieving Excellence
Discover insights on how to manage complexity and change. As a commander of a spaceship, Chris has been faced with the highest of stakes: human lives, irreplaceable and expensive equipment, and worldwide scrutiny. Drawing from his past experiences, learn more about the best strategies to help individuals, teams, and leaders prepare for and meet the challenges of our rapidly changing world.