Mike Massimino: High Performance

Astronaut and engineering professor Mike Massimino shares mission-tested insights on teamwork, innovation and perseverance shaped by two Hubble servicing flights and a distinguished NASA and academic career.

Quick Facts:

  • Highlights:
    • Former NASA astronaut and veteran of two Hubble Space Telescope servicing missions
    • Columbia University mechanical engineering professor
    • Senior advisor for space programs at the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum
    • Spacewalker known for problem-solving in extreme, high-pressure environments
  • Formats: Keynote speaker on leadership, teamwork, innovation, resilience and mission-focused performance under pressure.
  • Audiences: Corporate teams, STEM organizations, leadership groups, universities, engineering associations and audiences seeking inspiration from real-world space missions.
  • Outcomes:
    1. Proven strategies for leading teams through challenge and uncertainty.
    2. Mindset shifts that enhance resilience, problem-solving and innovation.
    3. Practical lessons from spaceflight that elevate performance and collaboration.
Reading time: 1 min
Reviews: (0 reviews)
  • Travels from: New York, NY
  • **Fee range: $100,000 - $250,000

Talent Services

Keynote Topics:

Mike shares with audiences personal stories of inspiration, innovation, teamwork and leadership as drawn from his experiences in one of the greatest and most dangerous jobs someone can have—NASA astronaut.

Through humor and storytelling, he highlights the pursuit and achievement of a childhood dream, the dedication and teamwork necessary to train for one of NASA’s most difficult space missions, the determination needed to face tragedies like the Columbia space shuttle accident, and the innovation and leadership necessary to overcome seemingly insurmountable trials when in space and beyond.

He leaves his audiences understanding the value of having passion for what you do, of perseverance in achieving a goal, of building a team to meet great challenges, and of creativity and innovation in problem solving.

He also inspires audiences with the awe and beauty of space and shares his thoughts on the future—both personal and in regard to the ever-changing and competitive space program

Talent Short Bio

Mike Massimino is a former NASA astronaut, bestselling author and Columbia University engineering professor whose career represents the pinnacle of human curiosity, resilience and teamwork. Selected by NASA in 1996, he flew on two space shuttle missions—the historic 2002 and 2009 Hubble Space Telescope servicing missions—performing spacewalks that helped extend Hubble’s life and advance humanity’s understanding of the universe. His experiences navigating complex repairs under extreme conditions have made him a renowned expert on leadership, problem-solving and high-stakes collaboration.

Before joining NASA, Mike worked as an engineer for IBM, NASA and McDonnell Douglas Aerospace, and held academic appointments at Rice University and the Georgia Institute of Technology. He earned his BS from Columbia University and three advanced degrees from MIT, including a PhD in mechanical engineering.

Today, Mike Massimino is a professor of mechanical engineering at Columbia University and senior advisor for space programs at the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum. He combines scientific expertise with an approachable, down-to-earth speaking style that makes space exploration relatable and inspiring.

Mike Massimino, a former NASA astronaut, is a professor of mechanical engineering at Columbia University and the senior advisor for space programs at the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum. \

He received a BS from Columbia University, and MS degrees in mechanical engineering and in technology and policy, as well as a PhD in mechanical engineering, from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

After working as an engineer at IBM, NASA, and McDonnell Douglas Aerospace, along with academic appointments at Rice University and at the Georgia Institute of Technology.

Mike was selected as an astronaut by NASA in 1996, and is the veteran of two space flights, the fourth and fifth Hubble Space Telescope servicing missions in 2002 and 2009.

Contact us at Speakers Inc and follow us on Twitter

Videos

Interest to Book? Send us your enquiry

Speaker Contact Form

Enquiry Form

No reviews available for this post.

Was this profile helpful?

Talent FAQ's

Speaker fees can vary depending on factors such as expertise, demand, and event specifics. While some speakers may charge a flat fee for their services, others may have hourly rates. It’s best to discuss fee structures directly with the speaker or their representative to understand the pricing model.

Keynote speeches typically range from 30 to 90 minutes, with the duration determined by the speaker’s expertise, the event’s agenda, and audience preferences. Keynote speeches often include a combination of inspirational stories, practical insights, and actionable advice tailored to the event’s theme or objectives.

The scale of the event and audience size can indeed impact a speaker’s fee. Larger events with a broader reach or higher attendance may command higher fees due to increased exposure and demand. Conversely, smaller events or niche audiences may offer opportunities for more flexible pricing arrangements.

Travel expenses such as transportation, accommodation, and meals are typically negotiated separately from the speaker’s fee. These costs vary depending on the speaker’s location, travel distance, and event duration. It’s important to clarify travel arrangements and expenses during the booking process to avoid misunderstandings.

Many speakers require a deposit to secure a booking, with the remaining balance due closer to the event date. Deposits are often non-refundable and serve as a commitment from both parties. It’s advisable to discuss deposit requirements and payment terms with the speaker or their representative when finalizing the booking.

  • Virtual speaking appearances are a cost-effective alternative to high speaking fees, often 10-50% cheaper than in-person rates.
  • There is typically no difference in fee for a 15-minute speech versus a 60-minute speech.
  • Some motivational speakers are open to discounting their fee if hired for more than one event by the same organization.
  • When browsing speakers, consider their location to keep travel costs down.
  • Personal connections to your organization or event location can increase your chances of securing a renowned speaker.
  • Be upfront about your needs and expectations to ensure a successful partnership.
  • Speaker bureaus like Speakers Inc help guide you through the booking process to negotiate the best deal with favorable terms.

Ready to find the perfect speaker for your event? Use our advanced search feature or contact us to get started today!

You may be interested in...

  • (58)
Srinivas Rao

Srinivas Rao is a visionary in the realm of creativity and AI. As the host of the acclaimed podcast, The Unmistakable Creative, he’s interviewed over a thousand thought leaders, gleaning profound insights on creativity, innovation, and the transformative power of AI. His bestselling book, The Art of Being Unmistakable, has inspired thousands of readers to […]

  • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • (32)
Astrid Scholz

Dr. Astrid J. Scholz is co-founder and CFO/COO of Armillaria, a tech-for-good company that creates digital infrastructure for more effectively and equitably mobilizing data, people, and capital towards addressing the most urgent challenges of our time. Astrid Scholz | Serial Entrepreneur Integrating contemporary innovations in technology, finance, and law, Armillaria is focused on the development […]

  • Travels from: Portland, OR
  • Entrepreneurship
  • (37)
Brad Sugars - Business Principles

Brad Sugars is a dynamic and influential speaker known for his powerful stage presence and ability to inspire and unify audiences. As a successful entrepreneur, business coach, and author, Brad has dedicated his career to helping individuals and organizations achieve their highest potential. His engaging presentations, filled with actionable insights and motivational anecdotes, resonate deeply […]

  • Travels from: Las Vegas, NV
  • Business Speakers
  • (59)
  • (3)
Omar Johnson-cover

Omar Johnson is a marketing visionary and brand strategist whose innovative approach transformed Beats by Dre from a niche audio brand into a global cultural phenomenon. As the former Chief Marketing Officer of Beats by Dre, he played a pivotal role in growing the company’s revenue from $20 million to over $2 billion, ultimately leading […]

  • Travels from: Santa Monica, CA
  • Business Speakers
  • (37)
  • (4)
Jim Lawless

Across the world, I find people now expect change and will deliver it fast: but only when they have the skills to do so.” – Jim Lawless, International Motivational Speaker & Author.Empowering Bold Change: Fast  “People resist change? Change takes time? How to change our activities to deliver new outcomes is a core professional skill in the age […]

  • Travels from: London, UK
  • Change Speakers
  • (27)
Katerina Cozias

Katerina Cozias is an international on-camera host and live events emcee with a dynamic on-stage presence. Currently residing in Los Angeles, she is the producer & host of the morning radio talk show LA40. LA40 broadcasts digitally on LA Talk Radio. She is also a recurring host and collaborator with Afterbuzz TV, Book Circle Online, […]

  • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
  • Communication Speakers
  • (8)
Uri Levine - co founder waze

Uri Levine is a globally recognized serial entrepreneur, tech visionary, and champion of problem-driven innovation who has dedicated his career to disrupting inefficient markets and creating large-scale value for consumers. Best known as the co-founder of Waze, the world’s largest community-based traffic and navigation app, Uri helped build a platform that fundamentally changed how hundreds […]

  • Travels from: Tel Aviv-Yafo
  • Innovation Speakers
  • (7)
  • (6)

Mary Abbajay is a renowned figure in the realm of organizational management and leadership development, boasting over two decades of hands-on experience in the field. Armed with a master’s degree in organizational management and post-graduate certificates from prestigious institutions such as Georgetown University and the Coaches Training Institute, Mary’s expertise is deeply rooted in both […]

  • Travels from: Washington, DC
  • Business Speakers
Disclaimer
The profiles and images embedded on these pages are from various conference entertainers and other talent.

These remain the property of its owner and are not affiliated with or endorsed by Speakers Inc.

Fee ranges where listed on this website are intended to serve as a guideline only.

All talent fees exclude VAT, travel and accommodation where required.

Subscribe to our Newsletter and get connected:

Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.
Your subscription has been successful.

Newsletter

Subscribe to our newsletter and stay updated.

We use Brevo as our marketing platform. By submitting this form you agree that the personal data you provided will be transferred to Brevo for processing in accordance with Brevo's Privacy Policy.

Our Mission:

We are your partner creating memorable and engaging experiences that go beyond the event itself.

© All rights reserved 2026.  Designed using Voxel

Speakers Inc Logo 2024
Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.