Virginia Tech celebrated Huntsville native Homer Hickam, bestselling author, former NASA engineer and astronaut trainer, as the 2024 Virginia Tech Cadet Distinguished Alumnus.
The ceremony commemorates Hickam's accomplishments on the 25th anniversary of the publication of his No. 1 New York Times bestselling memoir, Rocket Boys, which also starred Jake Gyllenhaal. Starred as a young Homer Hickam and was the basis for the critically acclaimed film October Sky.
Hickam's journey from Virginia Tech's cadet corps to NASA engineer to celebrated author has inspired millions of readers. Hickam is the author of 20 of his books, many of which are bestsellers and have been translated into dozens of languages.
Hickam is known for his role in building the Skipper Cannon, a cherished symbol of Virginia Tech, his service in the Vietnam War, and his shocking career at NASA, where he trained astronauts and played a key role in repairing the Hubble Space Telescope. It is also known for its long tenure.
Hickam's latest book is Don't Blow Yourself Up, the long-awaited sequel to Rocket Boys. He also wrote the screenplay and is one of the producers of Decert Sky, the upcoming film adaptation of his book The Coalwood Way.
Mr. Hickam reflected on this honor and expressed his gratitude to his alma mater.
“Being a member of the Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets was one of the best experiences of my life,” he said. “I am thrilled to receive this honor and have the opportunity to reconnect with the amazing and inspiring young men and women of today’s Corps who constantly live and serve our university’s motto, ‘Ut Prosim. They give me hope for the future of our country. ”
