Dr Scott Sleap, Churchill Fellow and visionary is calling for Australia to upskill our workforce and build our capability in the space industry, which is set to skyrocket nationally to $12 billion over the next decade, and to $1 trillion internationally by 2040.
Scott was awarded the Park Family Churchill Fellowship to inspire young people into careers in Space and grow Australia’s future STEM workforce. Scott has just returned from the United States, gathering latest insights from top-tier experts at NASA, leading universities, the Whitehouse and a prestigious international space exploration conference in Houston, Texas.
Scott’s report brings together latest findings and methods from NASA’s Johnson and Kennedy Space Centres, NASA Head Quarters, Lockheed Martin, Boeing, The Smithsonian, IBM Space Technology, Berkely National Labs, Challenger Space Centres, National Space Council (Whitehouse), National Science Foundation (NSF), New York City Centre for Aerospace and Applied Mathematics, and the California Academy of Sciences.
NASA Associate Administrator for Education (retired), Donald James said: “Winston Churchill Fellow Dr. Scott Sleap has planted a critical seed for developing the world-class National Space and Deep Tech Centre in Australia in this comprehensive report. His thorough in-depth survey of notable Space-themed science and technology centers, and leading aerospace companies through in-person visits and engagements, together with collaboration and support commitments from the entities he visited, provides a solid launch platform for the Deep Tech Centre,”
“Future Australian scientists, engineers, technologists and mathematicians may owe their careers to this outstanding report by Winston Churchill Fellow Dr. Scott Sleap. Dr. Sleap’s broad, comprehensive, in-person engagement at numerous science and technology centres and leading aerospace companies, provides the basis for this must-read report, and a compelling case for developing the National Space and Deep Tech Centre in Australia,” said Mr James.
Scott said: “In Australia, I envision a future where we become a leading force in the space industry, inspiring generations and pushing the boundaries of scientific discovery.”
“I am excited by the boundless opportunities awaiting Australia and our young people in the burgeoning space industry. Our future in space isn’t just about exploration, it’s about cultivating the STEM talents of our youth and equipping them with the skills to pioneer new horizons. This journey brings the promise of not just new jobs, but revolutionary careers that we can’t even imagine today.”
Scott’s findings highlight two key areas for driving Australia’s space industry forward: fostering collaborative partnerships and cultivating world-class programs. His ambitious proposals aim to catapult Australia’s space industry to new heights and establish a thriving National Space and Deep Tech Centre in New South Wales.
His report includes a vision to establish a National Space and Deep Tech Centre with a focus on critical areas to elevate Australia’s position in the global space industry.
The National Space and Deep Tech Centre is to serve as a critical convergence point for fostering innovation, providing comprehensive education, and facilitating professional development in Australia’s space and deep tech sectors.
“The Centre’s plan includes a broad array of programs aimed at the primary, secondary, and tertiary sectors, with an emphasis on retention within the space and deep tech industries. It will span education and training to outreach programs and internship opportunities, all dedicated to supporting the organic growth of a skilled technical workforce, including engineers, technicians, and operators,”
“The Centre’s collaborative and dynamic environment will not only equip individuals for prosperous careers in space and deep tech but will significantly contribute to these sectors’ advancement in Australia and globally,”
“In essence, the National Space and Deep Tech Centre symbolises an investment in a future where Australia takes a leading role in space and deep tech innovation,” said Dr Sleap.
CEO of the Churchill Trust, Adam Davey commended Dr Sleap saying his commitment and passion were evident for all to see. “We’re proud to be playing a small part in Dr Scott’s journey as he assists Australia to take the next small step and giant leap in our own space mission.”
Mr Davey said Churchill Fellowships have been delivering positive results for almost 60 years in honour of the memory of the famous wartime UK Prime Minister Sir Winston Churchill.
“The Churchill Fellowship celebrates curiosity, encourages inquisitive thinking, promotes innovation and generates a positive impact,”
“Our aim is to provide ordinary Australians with extraordinary opportunities to expand our collective knowledge and provide contemporary solutions to the issues and challenges we’re facing as a nation,” Mr Davey said.
“We’re proud to be supporting Scott as he continues his incredible work and to assist him in shaping the future workforce of our nation.”