Adam said:

"Nick is definitely out of my league since I am a humble B.Sc."

Adam,

If you're under 30 years old, I strongly recommend that you get a higher degree. A Doctor's degree is equivalent to having a "union card" or knowing the secret hand shake. It will open doors for you. Also, if you want to make an impact on the Space Program then you'll have to move to the U.S. That's the sad fate that awaits many bright Australians. They get over-educated and then discover their skills and native ability won't buy them anything in Oz (they're tall poppies). They're then forced to emigrate to America.

Some of America's brightest engineers and scientists were born and educated in Australia and New Zealand.

Gary

p.s. Oz is a great place to live (maybe the best place on the planet). Too bad there's no aerospace work there.