Thunderbird Initiative for Space Leadership, Policy and Business

Thunderbird School of Global Management at Arizona State University is preparing leaders for the fast-growing global space economy. With a unique focus on space commerce and diplomacy, Thunderbird equips executives with the vision, adaptability, and cross-cultural fluency to guide innovation, build enterprises, and foster sustainable growth worldwide.

Executive Master’s in Global Management (EMGM) – Space Leadership

Our flagship program, the Executive Master’s in Global Management (EMGM) in Space Leadership, is delivered across three hubs:

Phoenix – Thunderbird’s home campus and gateway to a world-class alumni network.
Washington, D.C. – The global capital of space diplomacy and leadership, with access to NASA, DoD, FAA, and other key institutions.
Los Angeles – Home to top space industry players and a thriving “new space” startup ecosystem.

Graduates emerge as subject-matter experts with agile leadership skills, innovative problem-solving tools, and principled frameworks for diplomacy and policy. The program culminates in the Space Challenge Lab, where students tackle real-world challenges facing the space sector.

What We Do

A Tailored Space Leadership Experience

A bespoke program designed for executives who want to lead in exploration, commerce, and diplomacy. Participants gain mentorship from global practitioners, access to exclusive industry engagements, and a powerful global network.

Practical Education and Training

Our T-shaped curriculum develops deep expertise in Space Exploration, Commerce, and Diplomacy, while building broad cross-sector leadership skills across civil, commercial, and military domains.

Applied Learning

Through immersive simulations, hands-on exercises, and team-based challenges, participants apply Principled Innovation® to solve complex space-related issues.

Entrepreneurial, Corporate, and Policy Engagement

Executives, entrepreneurs, and policymakers collaborate with Thunderbird to align innovation, commerce, and governance—shaping sustainable space ecosystems.

Research and Case Study Publication

Thunderbird faculty and partners produce business case studies, white papers, and policy analyses that guide governments, companies, and future leaders in advancing responsible space commerce and diplomacy.