Space Foundation, Space Workforce for Tomorrow, and International Space University Sign MOU to Advance U.S. Space Workforce Development

Written by: Space Foundation Editorial Team

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — April 24, 2025 — Space Foundation, through its strategic initiative Space Workforce for Tomorrow (SWFT)—a collaboration with The Aerospace Corporation supported by over 30 leading space organizations—has entered an agreement with International Space University (ISU). Formalized at the 40th Space Symposium on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, the memorandum of understanding (MOU) aims to advance space education and address workforce needs across the United States space industry.

This strategic collaboration brings together Space Foundation’s national presence, SWFT’s focused mission to close the U.S. STEM talent gap, and ISU’s interdisciplinary expertise in space education to support the development of a diverse, skilled, and sustainable space workforce.

The MOU outlines key areas of collaboration, including:

• Joint development of education and training programs tailored to industry needs
• Coordination of outreach and professional learning through both virtual and in-person platforms
• Exploration of a potential ISU satellite campus in Colorado Springs
• Alignment with SWFT’s national initiative to build and strengthen career pathways into the U.S. space sector

“This partnership builds on our national commitment to a resilient and ready space workforce,” said Melanie Stricklan, Executive Director of SWFT. “Together with ISU and the Space Foundation, we’re designing bold, actionable ways to prepare Americans for careers that will drive U.S. leadership in space.”

Heather Pringle, CEO of Space Foundation, added, “This MOU represents a strategic step toward unifying education, innovation, and access across the U.S. space ecosystem. Our workforce is our greatest asset, and we’re committed to investing in its future.”

ISU President Dr. John Wensveen noted, “We’re proud to bring our educational expertise to this partnership and look forward to contributing to the development of impactful programming that supports America’s space workforce needs.”

The MOU establishes a three-year framework for collaboration, emphasizing co-branded programming, national workforce development efforts, and shared resources to drive results across the space industry.

About Space Foundation

Space Foundation is a nonprofit organization founded in 1983 as a gateway to advance the global space community. Space Foundation uniquely educates, collaborates and informs the entire space workforce from early education through post-secondary (college, non-college, vocational), to the start of their careers as new professionals, and ultimately as leaders at the highest levels of government and commercial industry. As a charitable organization, Space Foundation raises support from corporate members, sponsors, individual giving, and grants. Visit Space Foundation at www.SpaceFoundation.org, and follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube.

About Space Workforce for Tomorrow (SWFT)

Space Workforce for Tomorrow (SWFT) is a strategic initiative by Space Foundation and The Aerospace Corporation, supported by over 30 leading space organizations. From the classroom to the boardroom, SWFT aims to eliminate the national STEM talent gap, illuminate career pathways for all, and build a workforce ready to meet the demands of the growing space industry. By inspiring, preparing, and employing the next generation of space professionals, SWFT fosters innovation, strengthens U.S. leadership in space, and connects untapped talent with opportunities. Learn more or support our mission at www.swft.space.

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Tags: Space Foundation, Space Workforce for Tomorrow, International Space University, STEM education, STEM talent gap, space workforce, space industry

Media Contacts:

Zakary Watson
Sr. Manager, Media & Public Affairs
Space Foundation | SWFT
[email protected]

Dane Coult
Chief of Staff
International Space University
[email protected]

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