Boeing recently featured a former Nasa astronaut in its lecture series for students in Qatar pursuing studies in fields related to science and technology.

Guest speaker Dr Bonnie J Dunbar, who holds doctorates in mechanical and biomedical engineering, told university students how her engineering education prepared her to fly on five space shuttle missions and for a successful career in the aerospace industry.

A session was held at Qatar Aeronautical College, and Texas A&M University at Qatar hosted a session for students throughout Qatar Education City. Expanding the lecture circuit, Boeing also brought Dunbar to the Qatar Foundation’s Qatar Academy for youth in primary through senior schools.

“It’s important to reach students at an early age to open their eyes to the possibilities technical careers offer and emphasize the importance of strong math and science skills in pursuing their dreams,” said Dunbar, who as executive director of Wings Over Washington – an affiliate of the Seattle-based Museum of Flight –  is focused on bringing more youth into engineering.

“It’s equally important to connect with students who are close to entering the work force to provide continued encouragement, share practical experiences and engage in dialogue about the importance of balancing strong technical and leadership skills with real-world learning experiences.”

Director general of Qatar Aeronautical College Ali Ibrahim Al-Malki said: “Our students are just beginning their careers in aviation and are mastering the knowledge and skills of flight, engineering and related disciplines.”

“Having a guest speaker like Dr. Dunbar, who spent a combined 50 days in space, is an exciting reminder of why they are working so hard to become a part of this industry. Our female students especially found her message to be inspirational,” he added.

Boeing launched the guest lecture series in Qatar in January with inaugural speaker Don Winter, vice president of Flight and Systems Technologies, Boeing Research & Technology.

Winter discussed globalization trends in aerospace research and development and how Boeing is working to bring new, creative ideas to market. The series will continue throughout 2011 with other guest lecturers to be announced.

“As a global leader in aerospace, Boeing recognizes the importance of cultivating science, technology, engineering and mathematics education and developing interest in technical careers,” said Mike Delong, Boeing’s Doha office lead and regional vice president of business development for Boeing Defense, Space & Security.

“Qatar is a valued partner to Boeing across our commercial and defense businesses, and we are furthering our relationship through mutually beneficial education programmes that also support the goals of Qatar’s National Vision 2030,” he added. – TradeArabia News Service