Bestselling Author Known for the Memoir "Rocket Boy," Decorated Vietnam Veteran & Former NASA Engineer

Huntsville, AL, USA
Live Event: $30,000 - $50,000 Virtual Event: Please Contact More Fee Info

Homer Hickam Biography

Homer H. Hickam Jr. is a bestselling author, decorated Vietnam veteran, former NASA engineer, and acclaimed memoirist best known for his book “Rocket Boys,” which was adapted into the popular film “October Sky.” Born in 1943 and raised in the coal town of Coalwood, West Virginia, Hickam graduated from Big Creek High School and earned a degree in Industrial Engineering from Virginia Tech. He served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, earning the Bronze Star and Army Commendation Medal before leaving active duty as a captain.

Hickam began his writing career in 1969 with articles about scuba diving and naval history, later publishing his first book, “Torpedo Junction,” in 1989. His breakthrough came in 1998 with the memoir “Rocket Boys,” followed by several other Coalwood memoirs, including “The Coalwood Way,” “Sky of Stone,” and “We Are Not Afraid.”

In addition to his memoirs, Hickam has written multiple fiction works. His first novel, “Back to the Moon,” was released in 1999, followed by the Josh Thurlow series—beginning with “The Keeper’s Son”—and the Helium-3 young adult trilogy, which includes “Crater.” His other notable novels include “Red Helmet,” “The Dinosaur Hunter,” and “Carrying Albert Home.”

Before becoming a full-time writer, Hickam worked as an aerospace engineer for the U.S. Army and later for NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center. There, he trained astronauts for several Space Shuttle missions, including those involving the Hubble Space Telescope and the International Space Station. He retired from NASA in 1998 as Payload Training Manager for the ISS Program.

Hickam has received numerous honors for his writing and public service, including Alabama’s Distinguished Service Award, the Appalachian Heritage Writer’s Award, and an honorary Doctorate of Literature from Marshall University. He lives with his wife, Linda, between homes in Alabama and the Virgin Islands.

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Speaker profile last updated by AAE Talent Team on 06/25/2025.

Homer Hickam Videos

Author Talk with Homer Hickam

Author Talk with Homer Hickam

A clip from the ppld.tv show Author Talk featuring Rocket Boys author Homer Hickam.

  • How do I book Homer Hickam to speak at my event?

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  • What are the speaker fees for Homer Hickam

    Speaking fees for Homer Hickam, or any other speakers and celebrities, are determined based on a number of factors and may change without notice. The estimated fees to book Homer Hickam are $30,000 - $50,000 for live events and available upon request for virtual events. For the most current speaking fee to hire Homer Hickam, click the Check Availability button above and complete the form on this page, or call our office at 1.800.698.2536 to speak directly with an experienced booking agent.
  • What topics does Homer Hickam speak about?

    Homer Hickam is a keynote speaker and industry expert whose speaking topics include Author, Inspirational, Motivational, Non-Fiction Authors, Veterans
  • Where does Homer Hickam travel from?

    Homer Hickam generally travels from Huntsville, AL, USA, but can be booked for private corporate events, personal appearances, keynote speeches, or other performances. For more details, please contact an AAE Booking agent.
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    AAE Speakers Bureau has successfully booked keynote speakers like Homer Hickam for clients worldwide since 2002. As a full-service speaker booking agency, we have access to virtually any speaker or celebrity in the world. Our agents are happy and able to submit an offer to the speaker or celebrity of your choice, letting you benefit from our reputation and long-standing relationships in the industry. Please click the Check Availability button above and complete the form on this page including the details of your event, or call our office at 1.800.698.2536, and one of our agents will assist you to book Homer Hickam for your next private or corporate function.
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Homer Hickam is a keynote speaker and industry expert who speaks on a wide range of topics. The estimated speaking fee range to book Homer Hickam for your event is $30,000 - $50,000. Homer Hickam generally travels from Huntsville, AL, USA and can be booked for (private) corporate events, personal appearances, keynote speeches, or other performances. Similar motivational celebrity speakers are Kurt Muse, Leif Babin, Jocko Willink, Mark Owen and Scott Waddle. Contact All American Speakers for ratings, reviews, videos and information on scheduling Homer Hickam for an upcoming live or virtual event.

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