WSU aviation research executive joins Sen. Moran in Space Coast visit

Sen. Moran (L) and WSU's Dr. John Tomblin (R) — Sen. Moran (L) and WSU’s Dr. John Tomblin (R)

OFFICE OF SEN. MORAN

CAPE CANAVERAL, FLA. – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) visited Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Cape Canaveral, Fla., and NASA’s John F. Kennedy Space Center in Titusville, Fla., this week to tour and discuss the role of the facilities in the future of aerospace. Sen. Moran is a senior member of the Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, which has oversight over NASA, and is a member of the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee responsible for determining budgetary priorities for the U.S. Air Force.

“I appreciated hearing more about the priorities and missions of the Air Force and NASA, especially as it informs my work on the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee, and discussing ways we can work together to ensure more Kansas students receive a STEM education and can find jobs in aerospace and aeronautics,” said Sen. Moran.

At Cape Canaveral, Sen. Moran toured the launch vehicle processing facility and United Launch Alliance site and was hosted by Brigadier General Wayne Monteith, commander of the 45th Space Wing for the visit. At NASA, Sen. Moran toured the EM-1 Orion multi-purpose crew vehicle and vehicle assembly building, commercial crew and cargo processing facility, mobile launcher, and launch pads A & B.

He was joined by Kennedy Space Center Director Robert Cabana and Wichita State University National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR) Executive Director Dr. John Tomblin, who Sen. Moran invited to participate as a representative of Wichita’s aerospace community.

“It was impressive to see firsthand the innovative research and launch operations conducted by Director Cabana and his team at NASA,” said Dr. Tomblin. “I appreciated the invitation from Senator Moran to join him on his tour of NASA’s world class facilities and share my perspective in discussions related to NIAR’s research and development efforts in Kansas. Senator Moran’s leadership in aerospace and STEM education continues to be a driving force behind our state’s role as a leader in scientific exploration, manufacturing and workforce development.”