News Release

Astronaut and NASA Engineer Inspire Mormon Youth

Maori aviation students among those encouraged to follow their dreams

Brothers Edward and Liam Boxall, two aspiring airline pilots studying aviation at Massey University, received a boost of encouragement from NASA space experts at a gathering of youth from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Palmerston North last weekend.

Former NASA astronaut Colonel Rick Searfoss, who has travelled into space three times, shared stories, photos and video from his space shuttle missions while counselling those in attendance to pursue their dreams and make them a reality.

But dream fulfilment isn’t easy. “It is necessary to sacrifice for dreams,” he said. 

NASA aerospace engineer and New Zealander Mana Vautier, drawing on his knowledge of physics spoke about power, describing it as “the rate of doing work.” Then he counselled, “Power comes from diligently seeking knowledge.”

He is also no stranger to sacrifice.  His career goal to be an astronaut and perhaps the first Maori in space is something he is working hard to achieve. Read more.

Edward Boxall, who graduates from his pilot training in April, is motivated by what he learned.

"We talked with Col. Searfoss about all the aircraft he has flown, and his experiences as a pilot for the US Air Force and NASA. It was motivating for us,” he said speaking of himself and his brother Liam.   

“Both of us grew up with goals of wanting to become airline pilots.”

Edward continued, "Talking with Mana about what he does as an aerospace engineer and working for NASA was advice in itself for us to go out and further our education and pursue what we enjoy."

Much of what applies to professional success also applies to maximizing your ability to serve God and others, according to both speakers.

Colonel Searfoss encouraged the young people to “choose the hard,” because that will “increase your ability to serve God and others.”

Mana Vautier encouraged the young people to "keep seeking knowledge" and emphasized the importance of working hard in both secular and gospel studies with the purpose to "lift your people up with you."

Vautier and Searfoss, who themselves are members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, travelled to New Zealand to help with the official launch of Puhoro, the Massey Science Academy pilot programme, which focuses on Maori Manawatu students and keeping them engaged in science and mathematics courses, reported the Manawatu Standard.

  

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