Susan Charlesworth

Susan Charlesworth is a psychologist, astronaut trainer, and keynote speaker specialising in human performance, leadership, communication, and resilience under pressure. Best known for her work training astronauts and mission control teams, Susan spent more than 15 years supporting the European Space Agency and UK Space Agency, helping elite professionals operate effectively in extreme and unpredictable environments. Her experience preparing astronauts for high-stakes missions, alongside her growing profile as a media commentator on modern space exploration, has positioned her as one of the most distinctive and engaging speakers working in leadership and performance today.

Susan’s journey into human performance began with a fascination for both aviation and psychology. At just 17 years old, she earned her pilot’s licence, an achievement that inspired her to explore the connection between technical performance, communication, and human behaviour. She went on to complete a BSc in Experimental Psychology at the University of Bristol before specialising further with an MSc in Human Factors and Safety Assessment in Aeronautics at Cranfield University. Her research focused on pilot training, cockpit design, and aviation safety, laying the foundations for her later work in astronaut training and operational performance. Before entering the aerospace industry, Susan built her career in education, eventually becoming Head of Psychology at Oaklands College, where she was recognised with a Lecturer of the Year award. These early experiences sharpened her ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and engage audiences from a wide range of professional backgrounds.

Susan’s career achievements span some of the most respected organisations in the space and aerospace sectors. As Human Behaviour and Performance Specialist at the European Space Agency, she trained astronauts, flight directors, and ground control teams in teamwork, communication, decision-making, and leadership under pressure. She also supported crews working in isolated and extreme environments, including Antarctic research stations, helping teams prepare psychologically for long-duration missions. At the UK Space Agency, Susan held several senior roles, including Astronaut Flight Education Programme Manager, Education and Outreach Manager, and Space Careers Lead, where she led national outreach programmes linked to British astronaut  Tim Peake’s Principia mission. In 2021, she founded Charlesworth Human Performance Ltd, creating the Launchpad leadership programme to support technically skilled professionals in high-pressure careers. Alongside her consultancy and coaching work, Susan has served as Director of Individual Memberships and Professional Development at Women in Aerospace Europe and delivered the prestigious Institute Lecture for the Chartered Institute of Ergonomics and Human Factors. 

Organisations hire Susan Charlesworth because she brings rare insight into how people perform when the pressure is highest. Drawing on years spent preparing astronauts and mission-critical teams, she delivers practical and inspiring keynote speeches on leadership, resilience, communication, team culture, decision-making, and thriving in uncertainty. Susan’s talks combine scientific expertise, compelling real-world stories, and actionable takeaways that resonate with audiences long after the event. At a time when organisations are expected to adapt quickly and lead effectively through uncertainty, Susan offers a powerful perspective shaped by one of the most demanding performance environments in the world.