Leland Melvin is an accomplished engineer, educator, and former NASA astronaut, whose diverse career path has taken him from the football fields of the NFL to the vastness of space. As a mission specialist on the Space Shuttle Atlantis, Leland played a crucial role in constructing the International Space Station during missions STS-122 and STS-129. His unique journey is marked by resilience and adaptability, making him a compelling figure in science and education.
Before his time at NASA, Leland was drafted by the Detroit Lions, making him the only person drafted into the NFL and flown in space. The Pro Football Hall of Fame recognized his athletic and academic achievements, honoring him by displaying his Detroit Lions jersey. Leland's transition from professional sports to space exploration exemplifies his ability to overcome challenges and embrace new opportunities.
Leland's academic background is rooted in science, with a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry from the University of Richmond and a Master’s degree in materials science engineering from the University of Virginia. His work at NASA Langley Research Center involved developing optical fiber sensors for aerospace vehicles, contributing to numerous scientific publications. After retiring from space missions, Leland led NASA's Education division and co-chaired the White House’s Federal Coordination in STEAM Education Task Force, shaping the nation’s STEM education strategy.
In addition to his technical expertise, Leland is a passionate advocate for education and community engagement. He holds five honorary doctorates in recognition of his contributions to education, science, and philanthropy. His memoir, "Chasing Space: An Astronaut's Story of Grit, Grace, and Second Chances," offers insights into his life journey and the values that have guided him.
Leland's experiences have also been shared through various media appearances, including National Geographic's "One Strange Rock" and as a guest judge on "Top Chef." His story of perseverance and excellence continues to inspire future generations to explore careers in STEM fields.
How can I book Leland Melvin for my next event?
Email leland.melvin@getapeptalk.com, or call us on +44 20 3835 2929 (UK) or +1 737 888 5112 (US), and one of our speaker agents will contact you within hours to confirm availability and fees. If you can, please include your budget upfront – it helps us fast-track your request. It’s also helpful to know the date, format (virtual or in-person), location, and a bit about your audience.
PepTalk are the official speaking agents for Leland Melvin available to book for corporate events, conference keynotes, leadership talks, celebrity endorsements, personal appearances, and motivational speaking engagements. We can assist with enquiries about Leland Melvin's speaking fees, availability, and booking process for private business functions, industry conferences, and team events. For media interviews, charity appearances, or personal matters, we recommend contacting Leland directly.
What topics does Leland Melvin specialise in?
Leland Melvin specialises in discussing engineering, space exploration, education and more.
What is Leland Melvin's speaking style like?
Leland’s delivery is warm, engaging, and highly relatable. He connects deeply with audiences, blending a gentle, human approach with inspiring stories that resonate and leave a lasting, positive impression.
Does Leland Melvin offer virtual speaking engagements?
Yes, Leland Melvin offers virtual speaker bookings for webinars, online conferences, and remote or distributed team engagements.
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