Marna Kagele: Rocket Scientist Turned Futurist

Naturally curious and always thinking several steps ahead

Well-suited to ambiguity and Loosely Defined problems

Working on the Space Shuttle was a dream come true and the best lesson in teamwork.  Launching humans off of Earth with the Space Shuttle required an enormous team of people spread across the United States, yet able to communicate and cooperate effectively.  As a part of that team I gained a strong foundation in collaboration.

Finding a way through today's information laden landscape can be daunting.  It takes tenacity and the ability to develop methodology on the fly.  With a background in engineering, I am trained to take an inventive approach to problem solving and bring concepts together in new ways.

I am a proponent of consistently revisiting assumptions to ensure a project is on track.  As technology changes rapidly and new capabilities are enabled, it is important to ensure our thinking is still valid.

With a passion for envisioning future applications of technology, comes a need for effective communication. I understand the importance of storytelling and bringing others on the journey of understanding which has driven me to work with the TEDxRainier team in Seattle.  Storytelling is the core of TED events and being a part of that has shaped my understanding of the process by which we communicate and create connection. 

My commitment to local community is evident in my volunteer work, from cleaning up the Duwamish River by kayak, to helping build the Beacon Hill Food Forest, and working with high school students at Raisbeck Aviation High School.  I am also an avid athlete and world traveler, finding inspiration in the challenge of new experiences and pushing my limits.