Fuel Jess' Space Dream: International Space University!!

Hi Everyone!

When I was young, I was fascinated by sustainability and the unknown. My mind would always question the origin of life, the stars, and the universe. I have a desire for continuous improvement, both of life here on earth and innovation in space. My competitive edge and passion for learning have set me up for success in my soon-to-be-completed degrees of Bachelor of Engineering Science in Mechanical Engineering and Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at Western University.

Figure 1: Myself showcasing my competitive edge in the Engineering vs. Ivey Charity Basketball Game!

Throughout my undergrad, I had the opportunity to further connect with the Canadian space industry. For my first experience, I joined the Western Engineering Rocketry Team, where I was able to develop technical skills, make new friends from around the world, and continued the development of my passion for the space industry. I have taken multiple roles on the team over my four and a half year journey, such as Propulsion Lead, Aerostructures Lead, and Chief Engineer. This experience established that space was the place for me, and I couldn't wait to get more involved.

Figure 2: My team and I standing next to our rocket at the Spaceport America Cup in 2024

Figure 3: My teammates and I after with our successfully recovered rocket at the Spaceport America Cup in 2024!

In 2023, I was selected to be a Zenith Fellow through the prestigious Zenith Canada Pathways Foundation. I am forever thankful to Zenith for this experience, as it changed my life and introduced me to the amazing Canadian space community. During my time as a fellow, I was able to secure an internship at Honeywell Space, where I was able to work with the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), connect with other like minded individuals, and even meet David Saint-Jacques, a Canadian astronaut! This experience proved that I was capable of thriving in the space industry and provided me with the tools I needed to succeed.

Figure 4: Patch trading my Western Engineering Rocketry mission patches with Canadian astronaut, David Saint-Jacques at the Zenith Fellowship Summit!

After my time as a fellow, I continued to volunteer with Zenith. This year, I helped to plan the annual summit and the Nadir project, a community oriented activity for the new class of fellows. I want to continue to give back to the program, as it has had such a profound impact on me.

Figure 5: Myself and the rest of the Zenith Canada Pathways volunteer team at the CSA this summer for the annual summit!

My industry experience was continued this summer, where I interned at StarSpec Technologies! I was able to work on a variety of projects and gained in depth, hands-on experience in assembly, integration, and testing (AIT). After the summer, I was extended to continue my work part time. Most recently, I was able to aid in radiation testing for components part of the TARDIGRADE project.

Figure 6: My team and I in the control room at TRIUMF Vancouver during an overnight radiation test.

Besides my interest in the space industry, I have passions for mentorship and community. For four years during my time at Western University, I volunteered with the Engineering orientation team, where I aided the transition of first year students to university. Most recently, I was head of the orientation team, managing over 70 student leaders and 1,000 engineering students. As a women in engineering, I understand the importance of strong female role models and I am honored to have the opportunity to lead multiple teams throughout university. I hope to continue to lead and push the boundaries of women in male dominated fields.

Figure 7: An orientation leader and I talking at the 'Epic Pull' event where we pull a firetruck for charity!

Figure 8: Myself and other leaders speaking at the 'Being an Undergraduate Woman in Leadership' panel at the Conference for Diversity in Engineering (CDE) hosted by the Canadian Federation of Engineering Students (CFES).

Recently, I have been presented a lifechanging opportunity to continue working towards my dream career. I have been accepted into the prestigious Space Studies Program at the International Space University. This amazing program spans 9 weeks and brings participants from all around the globe together to learn, connect, and work together. This summer the program is being held in Seoul, South Korea and will greatly help me grow personally and professionally. I'll be able to further develop skills related to all aspects of the industry, including space policy, business, humanities, medicine, and much more. I will also be able to connect with the future leaders of space on a global level.

Figure 9: My acceptance letter!

To fulfill my dream and attend ISU's Space Studies Program this summer, unfortunately there are large costs associated. I am extremely grateful to the European Space Agency who has awarded me €10,000 in scholarship for attendance of the program. However, the total tuition of the program is €20,000, which the remaining €10,000 must be covered by me, out of pocket. Also, a round trip flight to South Korea costs approximately 3,000 CAD.

To help me with covering these expenses, I have setup this GoFundMe with the goal of raising $3,000 CAD for flights and $15,000 CAD for tuition.

I am aware that this is a GIANT ask, but any donation, regardless the size, would immensely help to materialize my dream! Even sharing this fundraiser would help!

Throughout my experience in the program, I promise to document and share my journey! Community and giving back is really important to me, and I hope that my experience will inspire others to expand their horizons and step outside of their comfort zones.

Thank you for your support and kindness, I appreciate it so much!

Jess