US Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville has a new leader

The US Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville has a new leader.

The Alabama Space Science Exhibit Commission announced Tuesday that Dr. Kimberly Robinson has been elected executive director and CEO of the museum.

Robinson is currently NASA’s utilization manager for advanced reconnaissance systems and was previously the payload mission manager for Artemis I, the first integrated flight test of NASA’s Orion spacecraft, the Space Launch System rocket and the Exploration Ground Systems at Kennedy Space Center.

She is a 31-year NASA veteran and will take on her role at the missile center on February 15, 2021.

“Along with her extensive experience with NASA, Dr. Robinson brings an innovative spirit and the leadership skills needed to guide the Rocket Center in planning for the future,” Joe Newberry, ASSEC Board Chairman, said in the announcement. “Her energy and enthusiasm are contagious, taking her to the top of a rigorous and exhaustive search for our new Executive Director and CEO.”

Robinson will replace Louie Ramirez, who has run the museum since January 2020 after Deborah Barnhart’s retirement. Ramirez will remain with the missile center part-time as Chief Operations Officer to help Robinson transition into her new role.

Robinson completed her PhD and Masters in Engineering Management and Systems Engineering from the University of Alabama in Huntsville and her Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering from Vanderbilt University.

“I look forward to joining the remarkable team at the US Space & Rocket Center to inspire our next generation of explorers,” Robinson said in the announcement. “The Rocket Center is a vital part of our community that honors Rocket City’s legendary achievements and helps shape tomorrow’s aerospace industry. I am excited to bring my knowledge and experience of three decades of space exploration to the Rocket Center and help plan our vibrant future. “