Michael E. Fossum

Born in 1961 in Inglewood, California, Michael E. Fossum always had their sights set on the stars. After receiving a degree in mechanical engineering from California Polytechnic State University, they joined the United States Air Force, where they worked as a flight test engineer. In 1993, they made the move to NASA, where they worked on various space shuttle missions before being selected as an astronaut in 1998.

Fossum logged over 5,000 hours in space during their time with NASA, including stints on the International Space Station (ISS). Michael was the commander of ISS Expedition 29 and also served as the Assistant Director for ISS in the Flight Operations Directorate at NASA's Johnson Space Center. In 2017, they retired from NASA and took on the role of COO at Texas A&M University, Galveston.

Michael E. Fossum is an accomplished engineer and astronaut who has dedicated their life to exploring the universe. Michael has inspired countless people to reach for the stars and chase their dreams.

Michael E. Fossum has a background in flight test engineering from the USAF Test Pilot School, as well as degrees in physical sciences (space science) from the University of Houston-Clear Lake, and systems engineering from the U.S. Air Force Institute of Technology. Michael also has a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from Texas A&M University.

Some of their coworkers include Alicia M. Dorsey - AVP, Academic Effectiveness & Planning, Andrew P. Morriss - VP for Entrepreneurship & Economic Development, Dean of the I-School, and Mark Barteau - VP for Research. Michael E. Fossum reports to Mark H. Weichold, Interim Provost & EVP, Chief Academic Officer.