Jose Hernandez, the former NASA astronaut who flew aboard the International Space Station in 2013, has remained active in education, public service, and innovation. Many people ask, what does Jose Hernandez do now as he transitions from astronaut missions to ongoing leadership roles.
Through a mix of board memberships, public speaking, and STEM advocacy, Hernandez continues to influence the next generation of scientists and engineers. The following sections outline his current activities, business ventures, and impact on policy and education.
| Current Role | Organization | Focus Area | Public Profile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chief Strategy Officer | Elekta AB | Healthcare technology and radiation therapy solutions | Executive leadership and investor relations |
| Founder and CEO | ReSET STEM | Interactive K-12 STEM workshops and digital platforms | Program development and curriculum design |
| Board Member | Leadership Public Schools | College-prep charter schools in underserved communities | Advocacy and governance |
| Public Speaker | Corporate and education events | Leadership, innovation, and STEM workforce development | Keynote and panel appearances |
| Media Contributor | Interviews, podcasts, and documentary features | Space exploration, immigration policy, and education reform | Thought leadership and public outreach |
Space Technology and Innovation
In his current professional life, Jose Hernandez focuses on advancing space-related technologies through advisory and operational roles. He works with companies developing medical devices, imaging systems, and advanced materials originally designed for space missions.
His experience in orbit gives him a practical perspective on designing hardware that functions reliably in extreme environments. This insight is valuable for startups and established firms aiming to commercialize space-derived innovations.
Strategic Partnerships and Product Development
Hernandez collaborates with engineering teams to align product roadmaps with real-world operational needs. By translating astronaut workflows into product requirements, he helps reduce development cycles and improve user safety.
Education Advocacy and STEM Outreach
Education remains a central pillar of what Jose Hernandez does now, especially through hands-on programs that bring space-themed learning to schools. He partners with districts to train teachers and equip labs with low-cost experiment kits.
His nonprofit initiatives emphasize bilingual instruction and culturally relevant content, ensuring that students from diverse backgrounds see themselves in STEM careers. These programs often include mentorship and virtual tours of facilities like mission control.
ReSET STEM Programs and Workforce Development
Through ReSET STEM, Hernandez coordinates after-school clubs, summer camps, and project-based challenges that mirror real engineering workflows. Participants build sensors, code microcontrollers, and analyze data, gaining skills sought by local employers.
Public Service and Policy Influence
As a former public officeholder in his local school board, Hernandez continues to shape policy that links education funding with workforce outcomes. He advises legislators on the long-term economic benefits of investing in STEM pipelines.
His background as a child of farmworkers drives his focus on equitable access to advanced training and career pathways. By testifying at hearings and partnering with advocacy groups, he helps translate community needs into actionable legislation.
Impact and Future Direction
Jose Hernandez continues to bridge the gap between space exploration and everyday technology, emphasizing measurable outcomes in learning and public health. His work highlights how astronaut expertise can drive innovation far beyond orbit.
- Lead cross-functional teams to commercialize space-derived hardware and medical technologies.
- Expand bilingual STEM curricula that connect classroom learning with local industry needs.
- Advocate for policies that fund educator training and modernize lab equipment in public schools.
- Use media platforms to demystify space careers and highlight diverse pathways into engineering.
- Measure program impact through student certification rates, college enrollment, and job placement.
FAQ
Reader questions
What type of companies does Jose Hernandez currently advise?
He advises healthcare technology firms, particularly those focused on radiation therapy and imaging systems, leveraging his experience with space-based hardware design.
Does Jose Hernandez still train astronauts or work directly with NASA missions?
He is not actively assigned to NASA flight missions but supports training and curriculum development as a subject matter expert in human spaceflight operations.
How does Jose Hernandez contribute to K-12 education beyond speaking engagements?
He founded programs that provide ready-to-use STEM kits, teacher training, and competitive project challenges, aligning classroom activities with industry skill standards.
What leadership roles does Jose Hernandez hold in education policy?
He serves on boards of charter school networks and advises state-level initiatives that expand access to advanced math and science courses in underserved regions.