Nancy Vermeulen, Founder of the Space Training Academy and Master in theoretical physics and astronomy, is a leading aerospace expert turned strategic leadership advisor who effortlessly navigates the speaking stage. Reflecting on her prior experience as a Space Ambassador, Commander and Chief Organiser of the MDRS90 Mars Simulated Mission, and Candidate Astronaut in the European Space Agency’s (ESA) Selection Process, she delves into the complexities of being a leader. Whether she’s addressing individuals or organisations, Nancy delivers internationally acclaimed keynote speeches that are designed to leave a lasting impression.
To understand how Nancy became the Founder of NaviQueen Consulting, however, we must turn our attention to 2003. Learning to fly in the hopes of becoming an astronaut for the ESA, Nancy would make history as an A300 pilot for the US army by flying a cargo plane to Bagdad during a time of great conflict. In doing so, she received the Special Award for Military Operations, and later got the chance to participate in the ESA’s selection process in 2008. From that point onwards, Nancy found herself on an upward trajectory – one that culminated in her meeting with none other than Sir Richard Branson of Virgin Galactic. Inspired by Sir Richard Branson’s advice, she’d go on to share her expertise with the public, making her a sought-after speaker in all things space, science, and strategy.
Though Nancy had found her footing in the world of speaking and science, she was determined to showcase the skills that she had accumulated across her career as an aerospace pilot. So, she founded the Space Training Academy in 2018, through which she prepares aspiring astronauts and suborbital scientists to embark on their own space adventures. This branch of her career was further punctuated by the publication of “Indereen Ruimtevaarder (Everyone an Astronaut)” in 2021. Meanwhile, Nancy was excelling as a motivational speaker and guest lecturer, sought after by the likes of TEDx Events, Deloitte University, and the European Commission.
Now, alongside sharing her incredibly unique insights, Nancy Vermeulen has established herself as a talented strategic leadership advisor. Independent board member and active member of Rotary, author of the brand-new title “Aerospace Attitudes”, and champion of changing lives, Nancy is a speaker every event could use. Hire her via Champions Speakers today to learn about leadership from a woman who understands the term better than most.
How to hire Nancy Vermeulen
Contact the Champions Speakers Agency to provisionally enquire about hiring Nancy Vermeulen for your next event, today. To get in touch, simply call an official booking agent on 0207 1010 553 or email us at [email protected] for more information.
** We do not accept requests for autographs, signed merchandise, fan mail, birthday messages or any other non-commercial contact with the speakers or acts. Each speaker on the website may not have necessarily worked with Champions in the past but are known to perform such engagements within the industry.
Nancy Vermeulen's official speaking topics are listed below:
The Sky is NOT Your Limit:
Belgian pilot and space travel expert Nancy Vermeulen inspires many with her immense perseverance and talent. During this event, she motivates you to do what you are good at and shows you that tomorrow’s world is already in progress today. Be inspired by Nancy’s compelling life story. As a female pilot she flew large commercial aircraft, amongst others, during the second Gulf war in Iraq. Nancy’s passion for air and space travel brought her into personal contact with one of the largest pioneers of the commercial space travel industry, Virgin Galactic founder Sir Richard Branson.
As commander during her Mars simulation mission in the Utah desert (USA) and in particular with her vision of the future, Nancy invites you to literally travel with her through this wonderful "expanded world" in this event. In her enthusiastic presentation, she talks about the difficult path she travelled to achieve her goals; she is therefore a powerful source of inspiration for everyone who wishes to achieve their goals!
To Mars or NOT to Mars:
Discover the future of space exploration
Gain insight into the imminent space economy
Learn to see space as a source of new products
Get a different perspective on contemporary challenges
Gain psychological insight into your team's functioning
The Future is Yours!:
Navigate your way to success in an ever-changing world
Valuable insights from aerospace and space exploration
Human factors as a key to sustainable growth and business success
Diversity as a superpower: Practical tools for sustainable business growth
The Universe and Historical Quest for the Ultimate Truth
Discover the profound interplay between humanity's perception of the universe and the quest for ultimate truth in this captivating keynote speech. Throughout history, the evolution of our worldview has sparked monumental shifts with far-reaching socio-economic implications. But what changes lie ahead and what role do we humans play in shaping the future?
Join Nancy Vermeulen as she delves into "our place in our world and the universe," offering a unique blend of scientific inquiry, philosophical contemplation and insights into humanity. With a masterful synthesis of science and philosophy, Nancy invites the audience to explore the depths of our understanding and contemplate the mysteries of existence.
Official Feedback from In-Person & Online Events
Official Feedback from In-Person Events
"Nancy’s presentation ‘The Sky is NOT your Limit’ was a revelation, leaving a profound impression with her defiance of societal expectations and relentless pursuit of her goals. Her story is not just a powerful narrative of resilience, but also a source of inspiration that challenges us to push our own boundaries. As an exceptional mentor and visionary, Nancy’s influence reaches far beyond the aerospace sector." - Charlotte, Mentor, Executive Stress Management
"I first met Nancy during her engaging presentation "The Sky is NOT your limit" for VOKA Klein-Brabant/Vaartland, where her drive and ambition were immediately evident. Her ability to blend vision with pragmatism will significantly enhance our projects at the Rotaryclub Willebroek/Klein-Brabant. Her extensive knowledge in aerospace and technology, combined with her reliability and commitment, makes her a truly inspiring figure. Nancy continually seeks opportunities to uplift and inspire those around her. You'll have to meet her" - Rudi, Digital Marketing Expert & Founder, AAAwesome & Syneton
"Nancy is one of the most inspiring keynote speakers we have ever had within the ADM community. Her passion for technology and aerospace is truly contagious. Moreover her personal story is a motivating example for many young (wo)men to aim for the sky!" - Ingrid, General Manager, ADMbelgium
"Nancy's story can only be described as inspiring! As a public speaker she takes you on a journey through her life, and showcases perfectly what it takes to pursue your dreams. "The Sky is NOT your limit" will inspire young and old, and especially entrepreneurs: never give up, reinvent yourself and look for new opportunities! They may even lie beyond the horizon." - Filip, Lead KMO Expertisecentrum, GUBERNA
- 2025 - Published second book "Aerospace Attitudes"
- 2024 - Appointed Head of Aviation Training & Drone Applications at Hogeschool VIVES
- 2024 - Became Strategic Leadership Advisor as self-employed professional
- 2023 - Established NaviQueen Consulting
- 2023 - Served as Advisor for the Einstein Telescope project
- 2023 - Joined Rotary International as a member
- 2023 - Became a member of GUBERNA – Instituut voor Bestuurders/Institut des Administrateurs
- 2021 - Published first book "Iedereen Ruimtevaarder" (Everyone an Astronaut)
- 2020 - Appointed as Ambassador for EuroMoonMars.
- 2018 - Founded the Space Training Academy to prepare private astronauts and suborbital scientists for space travel.
- 2014 - Appointed Captain at ASL Group
- 2010 - Became main organiser and Commander of the “MDRS90” Mars simulation mission at the Mars Desert Research Station, Utah.
- 2010 - Named Laureate “Woman of the Year 2010” by Libelle.
- 2009 - Became the creator and main organiser of a parabolic flight contest for Belgian National Radio & Television (VRT).
- 2008 - Became a candidate astronaut for the European Space Agency (ESA).
- 2008 - Became chairwoman of the 8th European Mars Conference at the University of Antwerp.
- 2003 - Received a special award for military operations in Baghdad as A300 pilot for the US Army (while working for DHL).
