Making Space for All - Creating a Diverse International Space Sector
“As a senior leader in the space sector, I am passionate about Making Space for All, creating a space sector that is as diverse and inclusive as it can be, and recognising and championing the differences and value that each of us brings to the space sector”.
Martina Blake, International Space Sector Interest Network Lead.
In September 2024 the APM and I launched our International Space Sector Interest Network, a dedicated forum designed to unite project professionals and those working in or interested in project, programme and portfolio management across the international space sector.
Our Mission is to: facilitate a diverse and inclusive international forum that collectively advances project management worldwide. Together we will provide a vital platform for collaboration, forging a multilateral alliance among space agencies, governments, industry and academia.
As the Lead of the Network, and mentor and advocate for all genders across the profession and the space sector I am a proud that one of our objectives is to ‘Improve inclusion and diversity within the space sector’. In addition, I am particularly passionate about increasing the number of females working within the space sector and in senior project and programme management roles. This has been a focus of mine throughout my career, and I often speak at conferences and events to promote the space sector, promote the project delivery profession, and shine a spotlight on the importance of increasing equity, diversity and inclusion in these areas.
Addressing the challenge of enhancing inclusion and diversity within the international space sector is a significant undertaking. We are fortunate to have the support of Mark Heelis, our Deputy Lead of the International Space Sector Interest Network, in this endeavour.
As a father of two young girls under six, Mark shared, "
I am deeply committed to supporting my daughters dreams and aspirations, and I believe that with the right encouragement and resources, they can achieve anything they set their minds to. My hope is that they grow up in a world where their gender is never a barrier to their success. Whether they choose to become engineers, scientists, or pursue any other passion, I want them to know that their potential is limitless. By fostering a love for learning and curiosity, I aim to inspire them to reach for the stars”.
He went on to explain,
“NASA's Girls in STEM and Space Kidz India’s Shakthisat Mission, which aims to unite 108 girls from 108 countries in sending a satellite to the lunar orbit are just some of the increasing initiatives which provide a platform for girls to access the sector”.
“Encouraging young girls to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) is essential”.
Today, women continue to make significant strides in space exploration. For instance, Christina Koch and Jessica Meir conducted the first all-female spacewalk in 2019, showcasing the growing presence of women in the space sector. These milestones are not just about breaking records; they serve as powerful symbols of what women can achieve with determination and support.
Creating an inclusive environment where women feel valued and supported is key to their success. By celebrating the achievements of women in space and providing opportunities for growth, we can ensure that the future of space exploration is bright and inclusive for all.
Join the Network
If you would like to join the Network, learn more about project, programme and portfolio management in the space sector, participate in future in person and virtual events, or receive updates, you can do so here International Space Sector Interest Network (apm.org.uk)
We have several international space companies and space agencies, including NASA, ESA, Space Applications Catapult, RAL Space, BAE Systems, who have signed up to our Network Volunteers. As chair of the Network, I would like to invite you to join the Volunteers, and support in delivering our Mission and Objectives. You can apply to join here Volunteer.
About the Author and Network Lead
Martina Blake ChPP FAPM
Programmatic and Strategic Advisor, European Space Agency (ESA)
Lead for the APM International Space Sector Interest Network
Martina has a 25-year career in the UK government, leading and delivering complex and high-risk Government Major Projects and Programmes in areas such as the Space Industry, Government Security, Defence and Transformation, both in the UK and internationally.
Martina’s current appointment is as a UK Government Advisor to the European Space Agency (ESA), supporting delivery of ESA’s Space Safety Programme and ESA’s Transformation Initiatives. The Space Safety Programme aims to mitigate and prevent the effects of hazards from space, protect Earth, its inhabitants, and the vital infrastructure we depend on both in orbit and on the ground. She is also the UK representative for the International Project Management Committee within the International Astronautical Federation, working in partnership with space agencies such as NASA, ESA, JAXA, DLR and ISRO.
Across the UK government Martina is a high-risk Programme Assurance Reviewer for the Infrastructure and Projects Authority, providing expert advice across government departments. Recent reviews include UK Parliament Security & Transformation Programmes and the Ministry of Defence Skynet 6 Programme. Martina also has extensive experience in critical front line Operational Delivery roles, including supporting Operation Golden Orb in May 2023.
Martina is a Fellow of the Association of Project and Programme Management, a Chartered Project Professional (ChPP), and a graduate of the UK Government Project Leadership Programme.
Mark Heelis is a Programme Manager specialising in delivering complex transformational projects. At the Satellite Applications Catapult Mark is helping lead the growth of the UK space sector with a focus on the in orbit economy, including in-space logistics services and microgravity manufacturing. As an engineer, Mark’s diverse experience includes delivering flood defences to keep communities safe; monitoring key UK infrastructure and analysing the impacts of our changing world; leading regulatory digital transformation to improve our environment; and the integration of innovative space technology to support product and service development.
2025 International Day of Women and Girls in Science
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