Chris Hadfield

Chris Hadfield was the first Canadian to walk space, a former fighter pilot and globally renowned inspirational speaker. Inspired by the moon landings, Chris’ career has spanned over thirty years, and earned him a lifetime of compelling stories, in addition to the NASA Exceptional Service Medal in 2002. Now, dedicated to sharing his out of this world experiences in a bid to motivate others to achieve their dreams, reach for the stars, and acquire the qualities he developed in their own lives, such as leadership, ambition and risk management.

Selected by NASA in 1992, Chris was one of four chosen from some 5,330 applicants, to embark on a prolific career at the NASA Johnson Space Centre. Not only did Chris make history for his country as the first Canadian to walk in space in 2001, but became the first Canadian to serve as the Commander of the International Space Station (ISS) when he joined the ISS for a long mission in 2012. Whilst manning the mission, Chris aimed to inspire others with his work, and filmed a viral video series for the Rare Earth Youtube, exploring his time at the station. With a total of 166 days in space, nearly 15 hours in Extra-Vehicular Activity, and two shuttle missions, Chris hung up his space suit in 2013, an international sensation.

A military veteran, retiring after 25 years of service in 2003, Chris enjoyed a highly successful career in the Air Force. Gaining a scholarship aged 15 and another aged 16, Chris had been an active member of the Royal Canadian Air Force when he joined the Armed Forces in 1978. Graduating top of his class in Basic Jet Training and earning a degree in mechanical engineering, Chris went on to fly fighter jets in intercept missions, including the Soviet Tupolev Tu 95 bomber in the Canadian Arctic. His later military career was dedicated to his role of Strike Test Directorate, testing aircraft performance.

Publishing the New York Times bestseller ‘An Astronaut’s Guide to Life on Earth…’ in 2013, Chris has continued his ambition of inspiring others with the determination, preparedness and ingenuity space life taught him. Since returning to earth he has been the recipient of a number of accolades for his brave and pioneering work, including the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2012, and inducted into the Canada’s Aviation Hall of Fame in 2005. A distinguished speaker, Chris has toured the globe, sharing his compelling tales from the skies and beyond, with the likes of CHC Helicopter & Safety Summit, Ivey Business School and Canadian Insurance Industry. A truly captivating and valuable speaker, Chris Hadfield is the ideal addition to take your event out of this world.