Year: 1980

Where: New York City, NY

Who: Wanda M. Austin

Wanda M. Austin, a trailblazing aerospace engineer and executive, has made significant contributions to science, technology, and national policy. Born in New York City in 1954, she served on the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology, providing crucial guidance on science and innovation to shape effective U.S. policy. Austin has also held esteemed positions as a member of the Defense Science Board and the NASA Advisory Council and is recognized as an honorary fellow of the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA).

Austin has a distinguished legacy of leadership and service in STEM fields. She is a counselor for the National Academy of Engineering and a member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. Additionally, she serves as a trustee for the University of Southern California and sits on the Boards of Directors for the Chevron Corporation and Amgen, demonstrating her broad influence across academia, industry, and government. Austin’s leadership extends to her role as an author of Making Space: Strategic Leadership for a Complex World, where she shares her insights on navigating the challenges of leadership in high-stakes environments.

Driven by a commitment to inspire future generations, Wanda M. Austin is a passionate advocate for STEM education and career pathways. Her work reflects a deep dedication to fostering opportunities for young minds, particularly in science and engineering. Through her leadership, mentorship, and advocacy, Austin has opened doors for countless individuals, ensuring a lasting legacy of innovation and inclusivity in the ever-evolving fields of technology and aerospace.

Sources:

Websites:

• Chevron Policy, Government and Public Affairs. (n.d.). wanda austin. chevron.com. https://www.chevron.com/who-we-are/leadership/wanda-austin

• Wanda Austin. (n.d.). USC Board of Trustees. https://boardoftrustees.usc.edu/wanda-austin/