Abstract

This phenomenological study explored the ontological perspectives and leadership experiences of Black women in the U.S. space industry, employing an intersectionality conceptual framework. The research aimed to understand how Black women navigated their paths to leadership at the intersection of gender and race within Predominantly White Institutions (PWIs) in the U.S. Space Industry (USSI).

Following a pilot phase to refine the research approach, eight one-hour, one-on-one interviews were conducted with Black women leaders from seven major USSI organizations in Southern California (LibGuides, n.d.). The study probed participants' leadership approaches, educational backgrounds, access to opportunities, and professional development experiences.

Emotional Intelligence (EI), as defined by Goleman (1998), emerged as the primary device used to navigate leadership while confronting various racialized and gendered biases. Six major themes were identified through narrative data analysis:

  • Resilience and advocacy for diversity
  • Navigating gender and racial dynamics
  • Strategic career advancement
  • Empowerment through self-development
  • Leveraging personal attributes for leadership
  • Adopting a multifaceted approach to leadership

These themes resonated with Goleman's EI theory, as reflected in these leaders' adaptive strategies when confronted with dual standards, limited opportunities, and implicit biases. The participants' authenticity, resilience, and determination enhanced their leadership success and introduced valuable perspectives that fostered organizational innovation and inclusivity.

The study uncovered opportunities for organizational growth and innovation derived by harnessing the contributive qualities of Black women leaders. Organizations that created supportive environments that recognized these leaders' capabilities benefited from enhanced diversity advocacy, skillful management of complex dynamics, and strategic advancements. Organizations that leveraged the leadership capacity demonstrated by the study participants drove improved organizational performance and cultivated more inclusive workplace cultures.

This research underscored the synergy of organizational support and Black women's leadership prowess for creating a powerful catalyst for positive change and sustainable success in the U.S. space industry.

Library of Congress Subject Headings

African American women—United States—Leadership—Aerospace industries; African American women aerospace engineers; Aerospace industries—United States; Emotional intelligence—Women—United States

Date of Award

2025

School Affiliation

Graduate School of Education and Psychology

Department/Program

Education

Degree Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctorate

Faculty Advisor

Shreyas Gandhi

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