Wade May

Contact: wade.r.may@nasa.gov

Wade May’s journey into aerospace began in Tennessee, where he earned a degree in Engineering Science and Mechanics from Lipscomb University, followed by a Master’s in Aerospace Engineering from Georgia Tech. After inspiring students as a high school math and physics teacher, Wade launched his engineering career in Virginia, building models and components that help aircraft and helicopters fly safely and efficiently. His work ranged from wind tunnel models to full-scale test hardware—critical tools for advancing aviation technology.

In 2006, Wade contributed to the commercial airline industry in Huntsville, Alabama, manufacturing spare parts that keep planes in the air. A year later, he returned to Virginia and joined NASA’s Langley Research Center, first as a contractor and then as a civil servant. Since then, Wade has played a key role in some of NASA’s most innovative projects, including:

• Designing hardware for atmospheric research missions
• Leading integration and testing for instruments that monitor Earth’s climate
• Serving as chief engineer for technologies that improve spacecraft navigation
• Managing programs that develop game-changing space technologies

Wade’s leadership has shaped missions that study our planet, improve spaceflight safety, and push the boundaries of exploration. He has served as branch head for NASA’s Systems Integration and Test team and now leads efforts in the Space Technology Mission Directorate, driving innovations that will enable future missions to the Moon, Mars, and beyond.