Space Symposium


Swanson Pledges Education Support

Written by: developer

As the featured industry speaker at the 28th National Space SymposiumWilliam H. Swanson, chairman and CEO, Raytheon Company, voiced concerns and sentiments found across the space sector, saying that challenges and opportunities go hand-in-hand.

Commenting that the U.S. space sector is at a crossroads, he said that space is a source of economic growth and good jobs – a situation that can improve as the industry steps up to play an even larger role in innovation in space. “Industry can bring new efficiencies by reducing costs and risk,” he said, noting that “those who question the value of space are quick to forget the benefits.”

Swanson commented on space progress and the future, saying “it’s amazing to think of how far we’ve come in such a short period of time … it makes you wonder what the future will look like.” But, he questioned how we will encourage the next generation of space innovators if funding is not available. “How will we inspire a new generation to reach for the stars,” he said,”when those stars are out of reach?”

Swanson concluded his remarks with a pledge to increase Raytheon’s commitment to science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education, saying, “If we seize the opportunities before us, I am confident that years from now, we will again be amazed by how far we’ve come.”

This article is part of Space Watch: May 2012 (Volume: 11, Issue: 5).


Posted in Space Symposium