(Picture caption: Ioane Fiso worked at Dawn Aerospace Spaceplane Research and Development Hangar, in Christchurch while juggling his university studies.)
As Ioane Fiso takes his next step towards his ultimate dream of becoming the first Pacific astronaut, he reflects on the long journey he has chosen.
The 22-year-old of Samoan descent recently attended his graduation from University of Canterbury (UC), with First Class Honours in a Bachelor of Engineering, majoring in Mechanical Engineering/Aerospace.
A former Prime Minister’s Pacific Youth Award recipient, Ioane has always been a high achiever, and credits his recent university success to hard work and the support of his aiga, lecturers and peers.
“Mechanical/aerospace courses are not for the faint hearted, and pushing through the intensity took every ounce of strength I had, but I was very fortunate to have the support from both family and the University to do so,” Ioane says.
“There is a great Pasifika support system at UC, which I would urge all future Pacific alumni to make use of.
“Also, making time for family when you can, is imperative for your mental health and keeping the bond strong between those most important to you.”
Graduating was not only another box ticked off on the list of tasks Ioane has set to reach his dream, but it was an opportunity to celebrate as a family after a lot of sacrifice and missing loved ones, he adds.
Ioane has already embarked on the next step to make it to space one day, starting a PhD at UC, in Mechanical Engineering.
His research focus is on the environmental control and mechanical/aerospace design of microgravity subjected protein crystallography payloads in space.
“Thats a mouthful - but in essence, I’m trying to improve on/develop the systems that house and control the environment for science experiments done in space,” Ioane says.
“I have a world-class supervisor, Dr Sarah Kessans, who is a lead microbiologist at UC.
“She is spearheading groundbreaking research that my research will contribute to, in partnership with Axiom Space, who is designing and launching a new private space station where we can conduct experiments.
“It is an exciting time for New Zealand, as our aerospace sector continues to grow at a faster rate than ever.”
While there is still a long road in front of him, Ioane believes his goal is well within reach, with the continued support of his aiga and the industry.
He is also very encouraging to those wanting to pursue an Engineering career in general.
“This is a career that asks the most of you, but gives you the most back,” he says.
“We need more Pasifika in Engineering and especially in Aerospace Engineering…and to the Pasifika who want to trailblaze in your own field that Pasifika have yet to step foot in, then I applaud you and support your courageous endeavours.
“We are a capable people with soaring potential, don’t let anything stop you, because it can be done.”