My first 'semi' professional encounters with space were during a few summer placements at the Institute of Biomedical Problems (IBMP) in Moscow, Russia's leading space biomedical research center. I assisted with some of the microbiology research, which I then presented and helped publish (titled: Space Tourism and Safety from Infection).This experience led me to study Microbiology and then Molecular Medicine at Imperial College London. Throughout university I worked part-time at Commercial Space Technologies Ltd. (CST), editing technical reports, until going full-time in 2011.Since joining CST, my roles and responsibilities have steadily grown. Editing CST's consultancy reports helped me build a foundation of knowledge on the industry. Shortly after joining CST I progressed to establishing and managing a diverse range of projects, including: biomedical satellite research, market analysis and forecasting for the satellite/launch industry, multiple studies into spaceport activities (both domestic and international) and more. Project management evolved into Business Development as I represented CST at more industry events and pursued new lines of business. I am currently Managing Director of CST.My time at CST has given me an appreciation for the powerful applications space has in society, as well as the contributions it makes to the wider UK and global economy.