Tara M. Ruttley is an associate program scientist for the International Space Station (ISS) for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) at Johnson Space Center in Houston. Her current role consists of representing and communicating all research on the ISS, and supporting the ISS Chief Scientist’s research recommendations to NASA Headquarters.

Ruttley had wanted to work for the space program since she was a kid growing up in southern Louisiana. She worked her way up to her dream job, and has had some unique experiences along the way, but two pivotal moments mid-career made her question what else in life she was missing out on. What were her "other things"?

Ruttley is also a neuroscientist and knows that the brain literally changes when we have a new experience. We live in a limitless universe with seven different continents, nearly 200 different countries, more than 7 billion people, thousands of cultures, and hundreds of thousands of unique experiences, but mostly we stick to our daily routines. Yet even tiny new experiences can make us better able to adapt to change, overcome fear and adversity, and improve creativity. Why not try something new?

For her own good, Ruttley has been on a journey to explore beyond her routine, and now she inspires others to do the same. Whether you’re currently living your best life, or you’re stuck wondering what’s ahead, Ruttley's message resonates with everyone.

Ruttley is a dynamic, down-to-Earth, relatable speaker, and someone who is just fun to talk with. She has over a decade of experience in media appearances and has given light-hearted, informative, leadership-driven, and motivational keynotes to audiences ranging from undergraduates to career scientists and industry corporate professionals.

She pursued her B.S. degree in Biology and received an MS in Mechanical Engineering from Colorado State University. In 2001, she began working for NASA as a biomedical engineer for the medical equipment and human research hardware used on the ISS.

She then completed her Ph.D. in Neuroscience and joined the ISS office, where she’s played an active role in the science activities taking place on the ISS. Ruttley has authored publications ranging from hardware design to neurological science, and also holds a U.S. utility patent.

STEM Education, Science, Educational, Big Data, Technology, Space, NASA, Data, Data visualization, Engineers, Research & Exploration, Explorers, Science & Technology, Science and Technology Professionals, Women in Leadership, Women in Society, Influential Women,