Dr Joe Pesce is an Astrophysicist whose primary area of interest is the external environments of galaxies hosting supermassive black holes (to understand black hole formation and fueling).  He has been involved in pioneering observations at all wavebands, with ground- and space-based telescopes, and has managed large research groups. Dr. Pesce is currently a Program Director at the National Science Foundation where he is responsible for most of the US Government's ground-based radio astronomy facilities.  He is also a Part-time Professor at George Mason University and a Visiting Professor at the University of Colorado, Boulder.  He founded, and served as CEO, several firms specializing in high-level science and technology, critical thinking and problem-solving consulting and education. He has expertise in space programs, space launch, human space flight, and space/science policy. He is an innovator in critical & creative thinking and analytic methodology education, and an expert on STEM, leadership, research issues, and a mentor.An important aspect of Dr. Pesce’s work involves public outreach (including teaching), as an ambassador for science in general, and astrophysics specifically. Among other activities, he has made a number of television appearances, and has served as scientific advisor to several science fiction series (television and online) and has advised science fiction authors.Dr. Pesce’s other interests include interspecies communication, non-human intelligence, human cognition, psychology, Sci-Fi (in particular Star Trek!), history, art, architecture, music, and all things British! Specialties: Leadership; Executive Management; Astrophysics research and consulting; Training and Education; Mentoring; STEM issues; Critical & Creative Thinking; Problem Solving; Analytic Methodology; Collaboration; The Interdisciplinary approach; Consulting; Science & Technology; Space; Analysis & Research; Science Policy; Difficult problems.