Selected by NASA in June 1998, Kenneth T. Ham reported for training in August 1998. His astronaut candidate training included orientation briefings and tours, numerous scientific and technical briefings, intensive instruction in shuttle and International Space Station systems, physiological training and ground school to prepare for T-38 flight training as well as learning water and wilderness survival techniques. Initially assigned as Ascent/Entry, Orbit and station Capsule Communicator (CAPCOM), Ham completed his first spaceflight as pilot on STS-124 and logged more than 13 days in space. He completed his second mission as commander of the STS-132 crew and has logged a total of 25 days, 12 hours, 41 minutes and 9 seconds in space. Subsequently, Ham was assigned to the Aircraft Operations Division as a T-38N instructor pilot and WB-57F research pilot. Ham left the agency in June 2012.
Michelle spent 10 years working at NASA for a contractor primarily in International Space Station (ISS) Flight Control as an Operations Planner and also as an Astronaut Instructor teaching astronauts about the Operations Local Area Network (Ops LAN) – the computer system, and the Inventory and Stowage System onboard ISS. During this time Michelle trained nearly every astronaut in the corps for their Expeditionary flight to ISS or their space shuttle flight to ISS.
In 2010 Michelle decided that she has a passion for inspiring students and chose to leave her work at JSC to become an independent consultant. Since then she has done extensive work with the International Space School Educational Trust (ISSET) to inspire students about the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) Subjects through the use of space. Michelle has been instrumental in the creation of Mission Discovery and various Leadership Programs offered by ISSET as well as other projects such as Message to the Moon. Additionally Michelle is in the process of creating her own US based non-profit organization that will encourage students of all ages to endeavor into Science Technology Engineering & Math.
Michelle and Kenneth T. Ham will be giving a presentation at Rittenhouse Senior Living of Portage on August 9, 2013 at 3:00p.m. They will be giving an overview of their career and what they are doing now with their non-profit and helping students. There will be a question and answer period as well. Please R.S.V.P to 764-2900 seating is limited.