Distinguished Professional – Dr. Kenneth Harris
Dr. Kenneth F. Harris II is a distinguished leader in science, recognized by Forbes Magazine as one of the world’s youngest and most impactful individuals in the field. Currently a Senior Project Manager at The Aerospace Corporation, he contributes to classified and NASA payload missions, focusing on safeguarding on-orbit satellites from physical and cybersecurity threats.
Previously, Dr. Harris served as the Deputy Lead Integration Engineer for the “I.E.C” on the James Webb Space Telescope. Here he led a team to successfully integrate the main electronic payload in North America’s largest cleanroom, solidifying his status as one of the youngest African Americans to lead a multi-billion dollar NASA mission.
While attending Eleanor Roosevelt High School, Harris became a NASA intern at the age of 15 and grew to hold various positions including Rocket Scientist and Mechanical Engineer. Presently, he serves as the Vice Chair and District 7 Member of the Prince George’s County Board of Education advocating for early STEAM engagement and ways to elevate the educational experience for all scholars. Internationally he has delivered over 20 keynotes in the United Kingdom, Africa, and South America.
Beyond his engineering roles, Dr. Harris has hosted science shows for PBS Nova and The Smithsonian, while serving as an adjunct professor at Carnegie Mellon University – Africa, influencing students in Rwanda.
A lifelong Prince George’s County resident, he enjoys spending time with his wife and two children, cooking, and reading science fiction.”