Thomas Pesquet, celebrated French astronaut and international icon, recently added another remarkable achievement to his impressive resume: graduating from INSEAD’s Global Executive MBA programme in 2024
Known for his missions to space with the European Space Agency (ESA), Pesquet’s journey to INSEAD was driven by a desire for lifelong learning and a broader perspective beyond the technical and operational expertise gained from his career with ESA, NASA, Air France, and the Air Force.
Reflecting on his INSEAD GEMBA experience, Pesquet shared: "I’ve learned so much, found so many opportunities, and broadened my perspectives by studying, living abroad, and meeting people from all walks of life."
"Education is the most badly needed resource in the world, and lifelong education is something I will always seek."
Pesquet’s choice to pursue his MBA at INSEAD underscores the school’s global reputation and unique strengths.
Consistently ranked amongst the top business schools in the world, with three fully integrated campuses in Europe, Asia and the Middle East and unparalleled diversity, INSEAD offers a transformative experience for professionals looking to redefine their future.
Why the INSEAD GEMBA stood out for Thomas Pesquet
A global perspective
INSEAD’s unparalleled international diversity provided a classroom experience that mirrors the complexity of today’s interconnected world. For Pesquet, this was a natural extension of his career spent collaborating across borders.
Top-tier academics
Pesquet expected the challenge, and INSEAD delivered. From finance to strategy, marketing to leadership development, the programme offered a rigorous and intensive curriculum and provided a solid foundation in the fundamental practices of business.
Lifelong connections
What came as a surprise to Pesquet was the deep camaraderie and lifelong friendships he built with classmates from all corners of the globe. The GEMBA experience went far beyond academics to include personal growth, connection, and even fun.
"What I didn’t entirely expect was how the Leadership Development Programme shone a different light on leadership—less operational and time-critical, but more developmental and long-term. It’s something I will carry forward in everything I do", he says.
Would he do it again? A resounding “200% yes”
Balancing the demands of space missions with the intensity of the INSEAD GEMBA wasn’t easy, but for Pesquet, the payoff was undeniable. He notes, “2024 sometimes felt like a whirlwind of deadlines, late-night studying, and busy weekends. But would I do it again? Absolutely 200%.”
As Pesquet looks to the future, he’s equipped with the skills, knowledge, and network to navigate whatever comes next—whether it’s continuing to explore the stars or redefining leadership here on Earth.
Whether you're an astronaut, an entrepreneur, or a professional looking to make your next giant leap, INSEAD's suite of Master Programmes and Executive Education Programmes offer a high-impact environment to open global opportunities and cultivate responsible leadership that drives business as a force for good.
