New Member Spotlight
Name: Chris Male FRAeS, 63
Location: Normally London, UK, but currently based at home in Hertfordshire.
Job title: Publications Executive, Royal Aeronautical Society, formerly Publications Manager.
What inspired you into aerospace/aviation/ space? My primary school gave me a book as a class prize, From Kitty Hawk to Outer Space by L E Snellgrove, I read it and was hooked. Even if I couldn’t be an astronaut or a fighter pilot, then I knew I had to be involved with aviation. An enlightened school careers master nudged me towards studying for an aeronautical engineering degree and my journey began.
What is the best thing about your current role? As a member of the publications team at the Society I get to indulge in all my aviation interests, ie the past, present and future of all aspects of aviation. I hope what I help to produce informs the readership but also inspires younger members to take aviation forwards to the next chapter: return to the Moon, the first crewed missions to Mars, electric/hydrogen-powered aircraft and eVTOL to name but a few of the exciting developments in the near future.
What made you join the Royal Aeronautical Society? I joined the Society while a student to take advantage of its library and lectures at Hamilton Place. I remember being amazed at the calibre of those speaking and those attending. I was always made to feel very welcome. While working in industry I was a member of my local Branch in Hatfield before becoming reacquainted with No.4 when I joined the Society’s staff.
What three items would you take with you to the space station? Like many before me, my number one priority would have to be a camera to record the experience and the incredible views outside. Then I think it would be a tablet computer pre-loaded with music and photos of loved ones and life on the ground to give perspective to what I was experiencing. It could also be used to write a journal of my visit (and an article or two for AEROSPACE!). Finally, maybe that first book prize which started my aviation journey culminating with a visit to the ISS.
What’s your favourite aircraft? Assuming it counts as an aircraft, I think I would have to pick the space shuttle. Although flawed, it was an incredible feat of engineering. It pioneered the reusable spacecraft concept, seeing 30 years of service and enabled the International Space Station to be assembled.
Who is your biggest inspiration? From the very beginning of my career I have worked with some amazing engineers and journalists who have freely given their time to help and advise me. I hope, in my turn, I have followed their example.
Piece of advice for someone looking to enter your field? Take advantage of the wealth of experience of those around you. Ask lots of questions!