Leading Under Pressure: What You Can Learn from a Space Shuttle Commander

When I moved to San Antonio four years ago, I had the privilege of meeting my neighbor, Eileen Collins. Little did I know that this friendly neighbor – who first introduced herself because we had similar street addresses and often swapped mail – was an astronaut.

It was Eileen Collins, the first female pilot and commander of a space shuttle!

Over the years, I've had the honor of getting to know Eileen.? When I started my podcast, I couldn't resist asking if she'd join me as a guest. To my delight, she said yes, and it became one of the most insightful conversations I've had to date. I've learned so much from her, and I know you will too, Laura.?

Her leadership insights have left me thinking about how we approach leadership, especially in high-pressure environments like space.

What it Means for Companies

Eileen's leadership story offers valuable lessons for companies, particularly around trusting your team and giving them the autonomy to succeed.

Here's what businesses can take away from her journey:

• Empower Your Team: Eileen didn't micromanage her crew. She trusted them to do their jobs, which created a high-performing environment. For businesses, this means giving employees the autonomy to make decisions and trust their expertise.
• Clear Communication and Integrity: Great leaders communicate expectations clearly, and follow through with integrity. Make sure your team knows what's expected of them, and always lead by example.
• Focus on Employee Ownership: Encourage a sense of ownership in your team by setting clear responsibilities and providing the resources they need to succeed.
• Encourage Continuous Learning: Just like Eileen adapted to new roles in aviation and space, companies should foster an environment where learning and development are ongoing.

The Bottom Line: By empowering your employees and creating a supportive environment, you can build a stronger, more engaged team.

What it Means for Job Seekers

Eileen's career is full of resilience and self-belief – two essential qualities for job seekers today.

Here's how her story can guide you:

• Embrace Challenges: Just as Eileen faced new challenges in uncharted territories, job seekers must be ready to adapt, learn new skills, and take on new responsibilities.
• Stay Confident: Eileen's story proves that confidence and belief in yourself are key to overcoming challenges. No matter the hurdles you may face in the job search, trust in your abilities.
• Focus on Growth: Like Eileen, you must continuously seek out opportunities for growth. This could mean learning new technologies, building leadership skills, or taking on projects that stretch your abilities.
• Align with Your Values: Eileen's balance between her career and personal life highlights the importance of pursuing a role that fits both your professional goals and personal values.

The Bottom Line: As you navigate the job market, stay focused on learning, trust your growth potential, and remember to believe in yourself.

What's on the Podcast?

In honor of Women's History Month, this week's episode of the People Success Circle features a truly groundbreaking leader: Eileen Collins.

Eileen made history as the first female pilot and commander of a space shuttle, shattering barriers in the aerospace industry.

In this episode, we dive into her journey and explore the leadership skills that helped her break through challenges, including:

• Leading in high-stakes environments
• The importance of communication and integrity in leadership
• How she navigated male-dominated fields with grace and resilience

This episode is a perfect reminder of the remarkable women who have shaped history and continue to inspire us all.

Ready to level up your leadership – or your job search? Don't miss the chance to learn from one of the most resilient and accomplished leaders in modern history.?

Click here to listen to the episode now!