N.C. Labor Commissioner to welcome Artemis II Astronaut Christina Koch to NCDOL

Labor Commissioner Luke Farley and the N.C. Department of Labor will welcome NASA Artemis II astronaut and North Carolina native Christina Koch on Wednesday, August 26, for a special event highlighting the critical role of workplace safety, skilled trades, engineering, and innovation in America's return to crewed deep-space exploration.

The event, "From North Carolina Workplaces to the Moon: Safety, Skilled Trades, and the Artemis II Workforce," will bring together students, workforce leaders, and North Carolinians connected to the Artemis II mission to celebrate the people and skills behind one of the nation's most ambitious achievements.

As a member of the Artemis II crew, Koch made history as part of NASA's first crewed mission around the Moon in more than 50 years. Her journey from North Carolina to becoming an accomplished NASA astronaut offers an inspiring example of how education, technical expertise, perseverance, and a commitment to excellence can open the door to extraordinary opportunities.

"Christina Koch embodies the determination, innovation, and commitment to excellence that make North Carolina proud," said North Carolina Labor Commissioner Luke Farley. "We're honored to welcome her to the Department of Labor as we celebrate the hardworking men and women whose skills, craftsmanship, and dedication to safety make extraordinary achievements possible. Whether building our communities here at home or supporting the next era of space exploration, North Carolina's workforce continues to lead the way."

The event will highlight the teamwork and technical expertise required to support America's return to crewed deep-space exploration, while showcasing the many career pathways that contribute to innovation and economic growth.

From advanced manufacturing and engineering to construction, skilled trades, technology, and other technical fields, the Artemis II mission demonstrates how workers with specialized skills play an essential role in turning ambitious ideas into reality. The event will encourage students to consider the wide range of opportunities available through North Carolina's skilled workforce programs.

Koch's visit also underscores the importance of maintaining safe workplaces where workers can develop the skills, experience, and confidence needed to contribute to projects that push the boundaries of what is possible.

The N.C. Department of Labor is honored to welcome Christina Koch back to her home state and to celebrate her accomplishments alongside the students, workers, educators, job creators, and skilled professionals who represent the future of North Carolina's workforce.