Jim Wetherbee
Former Astronaut, Naval Aviator and Author of Controlling Risk - Thirty Techniques for Operating Excellence
Biography
With thirty-five years of experience in high-hazard operational environments, Jim is passionate about helping leaders and operators in dangerous endeavors with critical mission objectives. He is the only astronaut to have commanded five missions in space (tied with one Russian cosmonaut), and the only person to have landed the Space Shuttle five times. Jim began his career as a Naval Aviator aboard the USS John F Kennedy, flying the A-7 Corsair. In his second tour, he was a test pilot in the F/A-18 Hornet. Jim has logged 345 arrested landings aboard aircraft carriers, and he has flown 20 different types of air and space vehicles throughout his career. In 1984, Jim was selected to join NASA in its tenth group of astronauts. Over his twenty-year career, he flew six times on the Space Shuttle. The five-time commander flew two missions to the Russian Space Station, Mir, and two missions to the International Space Station. In 1998, he was appointed as director, Flight Crew Operations, specifically selected to improve the flight and ground safety in the astronaut corps. Bringing his experience from the aerospace industry as a former NASA executive and astronaut, Jim joined the oil and gas Industry as a Safety and Operations Auditor for BP Corporation North America, Inc. As the VP, Operating Leadership, Jim helped to improve operating results consistently over the long-term, by emphasizing effective leadership behaviors to inspire people to perform with operating excellence. Jim is the author of Controlling Risk--In a Dangerous World. Currently, he operates Jim Wetherbee LLC while advising, and learning from, companies involved in hazardous operations. ORGANIZATIONS: Lifetime Member of the Society of Experimental Test Pilots (from Dec. 1983); Honorary Member, Musicians' Union, Local 47, American Federation of Musicians, Los Angeles, CA; US Astronaut Hall of Fame (inducted 2010); Inducted in the Long Island Air and Space Hall of Fame (2014), Cradle of Aviation Museum; Inducted as a member in The Golden Eagles (2019), Naval Aviation Association. HONORS: US Navy: Two Defense Superior Service Medals; Distinguished Flying Cross; Two Defense Meritorious Service Medals; Navy/Marine Corps Commendation Medal; Two National Defense Service Medals; Navy Achievement Medal; Two Meritorious Unit Commendations. NASA: Four Distinguished Service Medals; Six Space Flight Medals; Two Outstanding Leadership Medals; Flight Achievement Award, American Astronautical Society, 1995 (STS-63); Flight Achievement Award, American Astronautical Society, 1998 (STS-86).
Speech Topics
The Inside Story of Apollo 8
Hear stories from the first time in Earth’s four and a half billion year history when three men got up one morning—and left. Who was responsible for the decision to send men to the moon on that first flight? How do people make such decisions? Astronauts eagerly climb onto a rocket and live or die as a consequence of their own decisions. But what does it take to live with the decisions made in the Mission Control Center when other people live or die as a consequence? Since the beginning of the space program, astronauts have developed techniques, based on the principles of operating excellence, to make effective decisions and execute missions while staying alive in unforgiving environments. Hear how these principles-based techniques can be used to optimize performance in hazardous operations, business, and everyday life to help us accomplish much more in our dangerous world—or out of this world!
The Ten Common Adverse Conditions in Organizations That Failed to Prevent the Next Accident
Based on observations, discussions, and assessments, Jim will present the list of ten common conditions that existed in various organizations before they experienced major disasters or minor accidents. In the sociotechnical system used to control risk, improve performance, and accomplish goals, five of these ten adverse conditions existed on the technical side, and five were on the social side. By turning hindsight into foresight, good leaders can use the presence and severity of these adverse conditions as indicators to determine if their organization is drifting toward a disaster.
Controlling Risk—In A Dangerous World
How should executives and managers inspire their employees to be more productive—and simultaneously prevent their next accident, even if unpredictable? On the front lines of danger, operators face hazards and make life-and-death decisions in dynamic complex situations. They are the last line of defense. What happens if they don’t succeed? After accidents, organizations typically issue new rules. These will work—for a while—in preventing similar accidents. But accidents are rarely simple. A company may be blind-sided by another accident that no one thought would occur. Again, new rules are issued and procedures are updated—yet the cycle of accidents continues. Organizations and operators must need something more than rules-based procedures. Since the beginning of the space program, astronauts have developed techniques based on the principles of operating excellence to execute missions and stay alive in unforgiving environments. These principles-based techniques can supplement rules-based procedures to optimize performance in high-risk operations, and accomplish more in our dangerous world—or out of this world!
Operating Excellence
For the executive-level leaders and board members in companies that have a vision of becoming great operators, Jim enjoys presenting an outline for creating a culture of Operating Excellence. Though this presentation, which contains pictures and stories, usually requires less than one hour, the valuable, open dialogue during and after the presentation can extend the presentation by one-half hour, or longer.
Unstructured Conversations
Jim offers to have open, unstructured conversations with leadership teams, or any other internal teams, to discuss any topics or challenges the team members face. He enjoys conversations about leadership, teamwork, operations, safety, procedures, or other topics related to controlling risk. Sometimes this type of event is conducted after a dinner the night before a symposium.
Montage
JIm will sign a montage of space flight photographs for each participant, if the organization desires to produce copies of the (8” by 10”) picture from a single high-fidelity electronic file he can send.
Videos
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I check Jim Wetherbee's availability or request a quote?
You can inquire about Jim Wetherbee's availability or get a customized quote by contacting Key Speakers directly. Our team will help you determine fit, logistics, and budget options for your upcoming event.What is Jim Wetherbee's speaking fee?
The typical range for Jim Wetherbee's speaking fee is $18,500–$25,000. The low end of the fee range represents their standard virtual fee. The high end of the fee range represents their standard fee for a US-based in-person speaking engagement. Appearances which require an extended schedule of activities or international travel will possibly exceed this fee range. Speaker fees update frequently. To receive a personalized quote for Jim Wetherbee to speak at your event, please consult with a Key Speakers advisor for up to date information and assistance.What factors influence the speaker's fee?
Other factors that influence a keynote speaker's fee include their reputation, expertise, demand, experience, duration of the presentation, travel requirements for the event location, and any additional services, activities or customization options they offer.Are travel expenses included in the speaker's fee?
Travel expenses are typically not included in the listed speaker's fee and are quoted separately. If the speaker needs to travel internationally, fees will be higher. These expenses may include airfare, accommodation, ground transportation at home and in the event city, and meals. We can provide more detailed information about travel expenses and arrangements once you've selected a speaker.How do I book Jim Wetherbee for my event?
The speaker booking process typically involves the following steps: contact Key Speakers to confirm Jim Wetherbee's availability, fees, and any unique requirements (we can also help negotiate fees and terms); submit a firm offer to extend the invite to your speaker, with the details used to create an agreement once the speaker accepts; coordinate and finalize the terms of the booking, including contract terms and conditions; and confirm the booking by signing the contract and making the necessary payments.What types of events do keynote speakers typically speak at?
Keynote speakers can speak at a wide range of events, virtual or in person, including conferences, corporate meetings, industry conventions, seminars, workshops, fundraising galas, educational programs, and other special occasions where an inspirational or informative address is desired.How do I select the right keynote speaker for my event?
When selecting a keynote speaker, consider the following factors: the speaker's expertise and knowledge relevant to your event's theme or industry; their speaking style, ability to engage the audience, and deliver impactful messages; past client testimonials, reviews, or references; and the speaker's availability and fee within your budget.What are the payment terms and conditions?
A deposit is required upon signing the contract, with the remaining balance due 2–4 weeks before the event. If the event is taking place within 30 days, the full balance is due upon signing.How far in advance should I book a keynote speaker?
It is generally advisable to book a keynote speaker as early as possible, especially if you have a specific speaker in mind or if your event is during a peak season holiday. Ideally, booking a speaker three to six months in advance can increase the chances of securing your desired speaker.Can you help me with the logistics and technical requirements for the speaker's presentation?
Yes, we can assist you with the logistics and technical requirements for the speaker's presentation. We stay actively involved during pre-event planning to coordinate with you and ensure that the necessary audiovisual equipment, staging, lighting, and other technical aspects are in place for a successful presentation.Are there any special requirements or accommodations that need to be considered for the speaker?
Keynote speakers may have specific requirements or accommodations that need to be considered, such as travel arrangements, accommodation preferences, dietary restrictions, or accessibility needs. Some speakers have a performance rider we include in the contract, others have minimal requirements.Do keynote speakers offer customization options for their presentations?
Yes, many keynote speakers offer customization options for their presentations. They can tailor their content, examples, or case studies to align with your event's theme, industry, or specific audience. Discuss your customization needs with us so we can guide you accordingly.Can the speaker participate in pre-event activities such as panel discussions or Q&A sessions?
Some keynote speakers are open to participating in pre-event activities such as panel discussions, Q&A sessions, or meet-and-greet sessions. Please share your specific requirements with us during the firm offer phase, so we can work on getting you everything you need.How long is a typical keynote speech?
The duration of a standard keynote speech can vary depending on the speaker and the event's schedule. Typically, keynote speeches range from 30 minutes to 90 minutes, including any Q&A sessions or interactive elements. Some speakers can accommodate half or full day sessions and extended keynotes. Discuss the desired duration with your representative to determine the appropriate length for participation.Can I provide feedback or reviews about the speaker's performance?
Yes, we encourage and appreciate feedback about the speaker's performance as well as our services. You can share your feedback via email after the event, or via our survey feedback form. Your feedback can help us improve our services and assist other clients in making informed decisions.Are there any discounts or special offers available for booking multiple speakers or multiple events?
Often, yes. It's worth inquiring about such possibilities with your Key Speakers representative to explore any available cost-savings options.Why book Jim Wetherbee through Key Speakers?
We provide a comprehensive service that takes the guesswork out of hiring a speaker — from speaker selection to logistics to post-event feedback. We know you have lots of responsibilities on top of finding and coordinating event speakers, so having a committed and proactive partner on your side that is an expert with the talent booking process is crucial. Every time you book a speaker with Key, your dedicated events manager will support you throughout the entire planning process. We help you negotiate contractual details such as speaker fees and travel terms so that you end up with the most favorable deal. With our highly communicative booking and proposal model, you'll never be left in the dark with the status of your speaker. To put it simply, Key Speakers is your one-stop resource for finding, booking and managing speakers for your event.
Speakers Like Jim Wetherbee
John B. Herrington
John B. Herrington, is the first member of a federally recognized tribe (Chickasaw) to travel to space. He is a Distinguished Naval Graduate from Aviation Officer Candidate School, awarded Legion of Merit, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, NASA Spaceflight Medal, Navy Commendation Medal and various other service awards. He is the recipient of two honorary Doctorates of Science. One from the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs and the other from the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology.
Fee Range: $12,000–$20,000
Travels From: MT
Check Jim Wetherbee’s Availability
Tell us about your event and we’ll be in touch shortly.