Duane “Digger” Carey, a former NASA astronaut, visited the Innovation Center on May 5 for “An Audience with an Astronaut,” hosted in partnership with the Space Foundation. During his presentation, Carey reflected on his path to serving as the pilot of Space Shuttle Columbia on the STS-109 mission in 2002, a critical servicing mission for the Hubble Space Telescope, and the challenges he overcame along the way.
Carey’s journey to NASA was shaped by perseverance, as he navigated personal and academic challenges throughout his formative years. While in high school, he committed to attending class consistently and to focus on his studies, allowing him to enter the workforce post-graduation. Later, recognizing that a four-year degree was required to become a pilot in the U.S. Air Force, he worked to improve his entrance exam scores and enrolled at the University of Minnesota. He went on to earn both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in aerospace engineering, setting the foundation for his career as an astronaut.
Carey emphasized that success at NASA and in the space industry extends beyond traditional academics, highlighting the need for diverse talents, including tradesmen, athletes, and creatives. Above all, he encouraged students to develop grit – the ability to learn from setbacks and continue moving forward. While he described himself as academically capable, Carey reinforced that it was his work ethic and resilience that ultimately shaped his path forward.
Following the presentation, students participated in a moderated question-and-answer session with Carey, asking about his time in space, the experience of returning to Earth, and the journey that led him to become a successful pilot and astronaut. Opportunities like this provide students with valuable perspective, highlighting that educational and career pathways are diverse. Through these experiences, St. Vrain Valley Schools continues to connect students with real-world learning, helping them explore a wide range of possibilities and prepare for future success.