An inspiring message from Joshua Kutryk to Canadian cadets

Uploaded on August 1, 2024

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An inspiring message from Joshua Kutryk to Canadian cadets

Canadian Space Agency astronaut Joshua Kutryk shares how being part of the Cadet Program prepared him to become a fighter pilot and an astronaut. He encourages Canadian cadets to pursue excellence and reach for the stars. (Credit: Canadian Space Agency)

Joshua Kutryk: Hello everyone!

I’m Joshua Kutryk, and I’ll be the next Canadian Space Agency astronaut to live and work aboard the International Space Station.

And liftoff!

The Space Station is a research laboratory that orbits our planet, where we conduct a variety of scientific experiments to benefit Canadians and actually all of humanity.

And I'm going to have the privilege to call that Space Station my home for about six months.

But before that, let's talk a little bit about you.

If you joined the Cadet program, it's because you are interested in exciting and challenging activities.

It's because you're curious, and maybe eager to learn new things and ready to make a difference in your community.

I was part of the Cadets when I was your age.

The program challenged me, it inspired me and it prepared me,

I think, to do all the things that I went on to do, including being a fighter pilot, a test pilot, and especially right now as an astronaut.

My colleague and really good friend, Jeremy Hansen, is the first Canadian astronaut to venture to the Moon.

He was also part of the Cadet program, just like you are now.

And so if you dream big and if you want to become one of Canada's future leaders, then I think you're in the right place.

Programs like the Cadets allow you to learn valuable skills that will serve you well for the rest of your lives.

And most importantly, you learn how to work every day towards a goal and towards a purpose that's bigger than yourself.

As part of our job, as astronauts, we spend a lot of time training and learning new things that will help us during our missions.

For example, we learn how to operate Canadarm2, we work on science, and we train on how to perform spacewalks.

We also take good care of our health by exercising daily.

And a very important part of our training, of course, is teamwork.

It's key for us to learn how to effectively work together, to respect each other, and to embrace our differences.

And so I encourage you to keep supporting one another,
and keep reaching for the stars.

As you continue to pursue excellence, remember that every challenge is an opportunity for you to grow.

Canada's future is counting on your determination and on your courage.

So aim high, my friends!

Stay curious, and never stop exploring!
 

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