December 5th Dinner Event and Awards Gala: Beyond the Launch Pad—Jeff Hessel's Insider Stories from Cape Canaveral (Part Two)
Join us for the 2024 Space Coast PMI Chapter's Annual Gala with chapter awards.
What to expect for this event:
- Networking with local peers
- Exciting Animal Encounters from the Zoo
- Chapter Business & Board Member Elections Announcements
- Presentation of our chapter's Annual Project Manager Awards
- Buffet Dinner hosted by Nyami Nyami at the Brevard Zoo
- Additional Festivities
Join Jeff Hessel for Part Two of his remarkable journey through Cape Canaveral—the heart of America's Space Program during the height of the Space Race. In this captivating presentation, Jeff shares lesser-known facts, historical insights, and personal experiences from his time at the Cape. Delve into its storied past, uncover why it was chosen as the nation's launch site, and explore the intense rivalry with the Soviet Union. Experience archival footage of President John F. Kennedy's final visit to the Cape and the historic Apollo 11 launch.
As part of the Field Engineering department, Jeff supported military, national security, commercial, and NASA missions, including making critical modifications to the launch complexes. Don't miss this engaging behind-the-scenes account that brings to life the untold stories of America's journey to the stars.
Speaker Details: Jeff Hessel
After earning his Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering in the late 1960s, Jeff Hessel embarked on a pioneering career with the Aerospace Division of Pan American World Airways at Cape Canaveral. At the time, Pan Am held the primary contract for managing and maintaining the Eastern Test Range, which encompassed Cape Canaveral and all tracking stations throughout the South Atlantic. This period marked the zenith of the U.S. Space Program, including the historic Apollo moon missions.
Now retired, Jeff is dedicated to sharing his wealth of knowledge and firsthand experiences. He has delivered lectures to a wide array of audiences, including community groups, clubs, corporate gatherings, professional societies, colleges, and STEM students. Notably, he was the keynote speaker at SpaceCom, a major space industry conference, and has presented to all high schools in Palm Beach County via live stream. Currently, he is writing a book that chronicles his experiences at the Cape, offering an insider's perspective on a pivotal era in space exploration.
