After her retirement from the U.S. Air Force and NASA, Eileen Collins served on the Board of Directors for USAA, a prominent San Antonio-based banking and insurance company.
Post-Retirement Role at USAA
Colonel Eileen Collins, a pioneering astronaut and the first woman to command a Space Shuttle mission, transitioned from her distinguished military and space career to a significant leadership role in the corporate sector. She was a dedicated member of the Board of Directors at USAA from 2006 to 2021. This long tenure, spanning fifteen years, underscores her continued commitment to service and strategic oversight, applying her vast experience to a financial services group deeply connected with the military community.
Her role on USAA's board allowed her to contribute to the strategic direction of a major organization, leveraging the leadership, decision-making, and operational insights she gained throughout her illustrious career.
A Glimpse at Her Accomplished Career
Before her retirement, Eileen Collins had an extraordinary career marked by remarkable achievements:
- Extensive Flight Experience: She amassed an impressive 6,751 hours flying in thirty different types of aircraft.
- Significant Space Time: In her space flights, she logged over 872 hours, demonstrating her profound experience beyond Earth's atmosphere.
Her background as an astronaut and Air Force officer provided a unique and valuable perspective to her responsibilities on USAA's board, particularly given the company's focus on serving military members and their families.
