Kayla Barron

Kayla Jane Barron (born September 19, 1987; LT, USN) is an American submarine warfare officer and NASA astronaut candidate of the class of 2017.

Early life and education
Kayla Barron was born on September 19, 1987 in Pocatello, Idaho to Lauri and Scott Sax. Her family moved to Richland, Washington, where she graduated from Richland High School in 2006. After high school, Barron attended the United States Naval Academy, where she graduated in 2010 with a bachelor's degree in systems engineering. While at the Naval Academy, Barron was a member of the Midshipmen cross country and track teams. Following her graduation, Barron attended the University of Cambridge, where she earned a master's degree in nuclear engineering.

Military career
After obtaining a master's degree, Barron was part of the first group of women to become submarine warfare officers. She attended the Navy's nuclear power and submarine officer training program, and was assigned to the Ohio-class submarine USS Maine. While serving on the USS Maine, Barron completed three patrols and was as a division officer. Following her submarine assignment, Barron was Flag Aide to the Superintendent at the Naval Academy until her selection as an astronaut.

NASA career
In June 2017, Barron was selected as a member of NASA Astronaut Group 22, and began her two-year training. She was the fifth female Naval Academy graduate selected as an astronaut candidate.

Personal life
Barron is married to Tom Barron, a US Army Special Forces officer. She enjoys hiking, backpacking, running, and reading.

Awards and honors
During her Navy career, Barron was awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal. She was Trident Scholar and Distinguished Graduate at the Naval Academy, and a Gates Cambridge Scholar at Cambridge.