McGaugh Elementary School students in Lisa McClellan fifth-grade class welcomed SPACE X co-founder Tom Mueller on June 4. The special guest took time out to be with the fifth-grade class and spoke with and to them about his and their ideas and education.
He talked about the importance of school and the teachers that were instrumental in guiding him to his path in life.
Southern California -based SpaceX designs, manufactures and launches the world’s most advanced rockets and spacecraft. It is the world’s fastest–growing private sector provider of space launch services. SpaceX has accomplished over 50 launches and continues to push the boundaries of space technology through its Falcon launch vehicles and Dragon spacecraft.
Mueller was born in St.Maries, Idaho, a small logging town with a population of 2,500. One of four children, Mueller’s father was a second-generation logger. The only one in his family to earn a college degree, he attributes his success to his family’s work ethic and integrity. He said these values are his foundation and they are evident in all spheres of his life.
A pivotal point in his life was when Mueller took a geometry class in High school and emerged one of the top students. His math teacher, a Mr. Heinz, encouraged him to consider college in the engineering field.
When the teacher asked Mueller what he wanted to be, he responded “an aircraft mechanic.” Mueller realized he wanted to design the planes. That teacher radically changed Mueller’s life.
Teacher McClellan shares Mueller’s passion for science and technology and is currently working for her pilot’s license. Mueller received an honorary Doctorate Degree from Loyola Marymount University in recognition of his great achievements.
