Shay Bhardwaj

About Shay Bhardwaj

I am a space operations leader with deep experience in microgravity research, payload integration, and complex mission execution. Originally from Alpharetta, GA, I’ve spent my career enabling scientists, engineers, and organizations to push the boundaries of what’s possible in reduced-gravity environments.With a Bachelor of Science in Space Flight Operations and a Master’s degree in Aviation & Space from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, I have built a strong foundation at the intersection of engineering, mission operations, and strategic leadership. I began my journey founding and leading frontier-driven STEM initiatives—including co-creating my high school’s FIRST Robotics program—and have since grown into roles that shape research capabilities and elevate mission success.As the former Director of Research Operations at Zero Gravity Corporation, I led end-to-end operational planning for commercial microgravity flight programs, supporting government, commercial, and academic missions. My work spanned payload verification, integration readiness, hazard analyses, FAA compliance, Test Readiness Reviews, and structural engineering coordination. I oversaw payloads ranging from CubeSat-class educational experiments to multi-ton cryogenic systems characterizing behavior for future lunar, Martian, and orbital applications.Across dozens of research campaigns—including the largest in company history—I partnered with NASA, Space Force, industry innovators, and global research teams to enable breakthrough science in zero, lunar, and Martian gravity environments. These experiences strengthened my passion for advancing technologies that support human spaceflight, orbital debris mitigation, in-space manufacturing, and planetary exploration.Today, I continue to support the space community through consulting and mission operations support, helping teams navigate payload certification, microgravity readiness, integration workflows, and flight planning.If you’re exploring microgravity research, payload certification, or collaboration opportunities, I’d be happy to connect and help move your mission forward.My long-term aspiration remains contributing directly to the future of human spaceflight—and ultimately becoming an astronaut.

Experience

1. Gateway Program Variance Lead

   Craig Technologies

   Jan 2026 — Present · Houston, TX, US

   In my role supporting NASA’s Gateway Program, I coordinate and manage all program waivers and deviations (W/Ds), serving as a central integration point across technical teams, program management, and international partners. • Lead end-to-end coordination of Gateway Program waivers and deviations, from initial submission through board review and final approval, ensuring accuracy, traceability, and schedule alignment • Build and maintain strong working relationships with internal stakeholders, cross-program teams, and international partners to support efficient variance development and resolution • Establish, maintain, and analyze W/D reports and dashboards to support Program Management, major milestone reviews, and ad hoc decision-making • Own and continuously improve W/D processes, providing training and guidance to stakeholders and serving as a subject matter resource for variance procedures • Assign and coordinate variance integrators (VIs), change package engineers, and relevant stakeholders to support technical development and reviews • Coordinate and participate in technical interchange meetings (TIMs) and working groups to resolve technical and programmatic issues • Facilitate and, when required, lead W/D discussions with international partners in close coordination with the Gateway ESA Element Integration ManagerThis role sits at the intersection of systems engineering, program integration, and international collaboration—supporting risk-informed decision-making for NASA’s next step in lunar exploration

Education

• Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

  Master's Degree, Aeronautics/Aviation/Aerospace Science and Technology, General

• Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

  Bachelor's of Science, Space Flight Operations