Leslie Wickman

Dr. Leslie Wickman is an internationally respected research scientist, engineering consultant, author, and inspirational speaker. Born and raised in the Pacific Northwest, she graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Willamette University in Salem, Oregon. She later earned a Master’s degree in Aero/Astro Engineering, as well as a doctoral degree in Human Factors and Biomechanics, from Stanford University. For over a decade she worked as an engineer for Lockheed Martin Missiles & Space in Sunnyvale, CA. While there, she had the opportunity to work on NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope and International Space Station Programs, and received commendations from both NASA and contractors for her contributions. During this time, she was designated as Lockheed’s Corporate Astronaut. Following Lockheed Martin, she moved to WET Labs in University City, CA, where she was instrumental in the development and programming of the Fountains of Bellagio in Las Vegas, NV. She also spent several years working as a research scientist with The RAND Corporation in Santa Monica, CA, on technical and political aspects of various national defense issues. After spending the last fifteen years in academia, she is excited about her new role as Executive Director of the American Scientific Affiliation, as the organization seeks to promote the thoughtful dialog between science and faith (asa3.org). In addition, she serves as an engineering specialist on various aerospace projects. Currently, her primary research project involves investigating the effects of climate change on national security issues. Leslie played women’s professional football with the California Quake (Women’s World Bowl Champions in 2002), as well as pro-am beach doubles volleyball with the FIVB and CBVA. She has traveled with Athletes in Action Volleyball to Bolivia, Brazil, and South Africa. Dr. Wickman is also an ordained minister.