Speech Topic: Management and Space Flight

Humankind’s most ambitious and exciting venture — human flight to the moon — succeeded beyond all expectations. Adherence to the basic principles of good management guided by common sense led the way. The early management of the space program set the bar at unprecedented heights. However, in subsequent years, mediocrity crept in, lowered performance, and escalated costs as national leadership ignored the very principles that enabled earlier success.

As Ed describes the triumphs of America’s space program during the Apollo era, he identifies the seven basic principles of good management that led to success — principles that apply to any endeavor, public, private, or non-profit. Integrating personal experiences from liftoff and space walks to re-entry into the Earth’s atmosphere, Ed illustrates the ability to initiate action, focus on the mission, organize lean, competent teams, motivate and properly support staff, and lastly, get out of the way.

The presentation is enriched by Ed’s ability to creatively put the listener’s mind in the spacecraft to experience flight. Through humor and an insightful perspective into America’s opportunities in space, he demonstrates how solid management can enable the U.S. to maintain and extend its leading role in space exploration.