I am a mediocre rock and roll musician turned acclaimed rocket scientist, leader and student of human nature:
As the Chief Engineer of the Mars Sample Return Program, the Perseverance Rover, and the Sky Crane landing system for the Curiosity Rover, I have helped lead teams to accomplish amazing innovative feats that have left the world in awe.
Through all the engineering, I have come to realize that it is how we work together as humans, that makes the greatest difference between success and failure. I have observed what works in bringing out the best in a team, in collaboration and innovation. I have written about leadership, teamwork and innovation and enjoy sharing my observations with audiences.
How do we construct a culture that allows our team members to bring the most of themselves to the collaborative effort?
What is the power of finding something to love in everyone we work with?
What does it mean to separate ideas from the team members who bring them into play?
How do we find our way out of the “dark room” that spot where the future path to success seams lost?
How do we create ideas and then allow them to engage in mortal combat where only the strongest survive?
I have received awards and recognition for my accomplishments, but I am by no means finished growing and challenging myself to become more and better. I am constantly learning and updating my understanding of human nature, successful collaboration and how, together in teams, we can accomplish the seamingly impossible.