Faculty, staff and students who are interested in learning about STEM careers, especially those related to space exploration, engineering, research and education, will appreciate hearing about Kayla Barron’s process of becoming an astronaut and her time (177 days) aboard the International Space Station. Barron is a Richland native and is returning to share her experiences as a Naval officer aboard nuclear submarines and astronaut. With a bachelor’s degree in systems engineering from Annapolis and a master’s degree in nuclear engineering from the University of Cambridge, Kayla can speak to faculty and students about the importance of STEM careers and being open to opportunities.