." When I was all around 16 or even 17, I came across this book by Arthur C. Clarke called Space Journey 2001. That was actually the 1st sci-fi book that I have actually ever checked out. I was actually so grabbed through what he had written due to the fact that things that he blogged about weren't [taking place] in the far future, however in the year 2001. In the book, he speaks about a whole lot about spaceport station, as well as space shuttles that increase to the space station, and lorries that go to the Moon or even the Moon base, plus all that. I indicate, these are actually phrases that you listen to today constantly, right? And Arthur C. Clarke really visualized it back then. To make sure that was interesting to me. I wished that someday I could possibly work on something like that." In phrases of my education and learning, I was really visiting go into the space engineering, however then a person suggested me that mechanical design would certainly provide me a more comprehensive history. So I adhered to the insight, and it was actually the best trait to carry out. I found yourself learning a lot of traits, certainly not only mechanical engineering yet also a great deal about electrical design and systems engineering all at once." ... Then a chance came with NASA. It was at that time that they began speaking about the space station. Ronald Reagan during that time was the President, and also he proposed this project to establish the space station. During that time, he phoned the spaceport station 'Independence.'." I assumed, 'Wow, what a fantastic concept it would certainly be actually fantastic if I can deal with that.'." And of training program, one thing led to yet another, as well as [I found yourself dealing with the International Space Station.] So you never understand what you're heading to end up doing." I count on coexistence at times. The many things that you do, somehow, bring about your ultimate destination. Some invisible powers push you in that path. When you recall, you realize that every thing meshes.".-- Douglas Wong, Systems Developer, ISS CRS Checking Out Vehicle Safety And Security & Goal Guarantee Assimilation Focal, NASA's Johnson Room Facility.Image Credit: NASA/Bill StaffordInterviewer: NASA/Thalia Patrinos.Take a look at a number of our various other Images of NASA..