Merryl Tengesdal

First African-American Woman USAF U-2 Pilot, Author of "Shatter the Sky" & STEM Advocate

Travels From Travels From:
Roseville, CA, USA
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Merryl Tengesdal Biography

Groundbreaking aviator, author, and retired Colonel Merryl Tengesdal made history as the first and only African American woman USAF U-2 Pilot. Over her military career spanning more than two decades, Tengesdal served as a Naval Aviator and Air Force Combat Pilot, accumulating over 3,400 flight hours, including 330 combat hours in various aircraft. She piloted the "Dragon Lady" high-altitude reconnaissance aircraft and held significant command positions, including Deputy Operations Group Commander and Inspector General for the 9th Reconnaissance Wing. Tengesdal retired in 2017 from the Pentagon as the Director of Inspections for the Air Force Inspector General, where she oversaw a program for 860K Airmen.

Tengesdal's extensive experience is also highlighted in her memoir, "Shatter the Sky: What going to the stratosphere taught me about self-worth, sacrifice, and discipline." Her engaging storytelling continues to resonate at events, leaving audiences motivated and inspired. Besides her literary achievements, Tengesdal starred on CBS' "Tough as Nails," promoting increased minority involvement in the trades, and appeared as a commentator on PBS’ "UNLADYLIKE2020: The Bessie Coleman Story." Her technical expertise contributed to the authenticity of Steven Spielberg’s film "Bridge of Spies." Tengesdal has been recognized as an aviation pioneer, notably being inducted into the 2019 Gathering of Eagles Foundation.

In addition to her aviation and military accolades, Tengesdal is a compelling motivational speaker, focusing on diversity, leadership, and women in leadership. She frequently shares her experiences and insights with various organizations, emphasizing the importance of leadership as a woman and person of color in underrepresented spaces, personal and mental health, and the application of military leadership principles in business and daily life. Her advocacy extends to increasing the presence of women and children of color in STEM, addressing major events, and inspiring the next generation of leaders.

Merryl Tengesdal Videos

  • Shatter the Sky: Women in Military Aviation
    Celebrate International Women in Aviation and Women’s History Month on March 12, 2022! Discover and explore the stories of women who took to the...
  • Former U2 Pilot Col.(Ret.) Merryl Tengesdal Interview at NMUSAF 2020
    Former U2 Pilot Col.(Ret.) Merryl Tengesdal Interview at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force March 2020. Tengesdal (born 1971) is the first...

Merryl Tengesdal Books

  • Shatter the Sky: What going to the stratosphere taught me about self-worth, sacrifice, and discipline
    Shatter the Sky: What going to the stratosphere taught me about self-worth, sacrifice, and discipline

Speaker Lists Featuring Merryl Tengesdal

FAQs on booking Merryl Tengesdal

  • How do I book Merryl Tengesdal to speak at my event?

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  • What are the speaker fees for Merryl Tengesdal

    Speaking fees for Merryl Tengesdal, or any other speakers and celebrities, are determined based on a number of factors and may change without notice. The estimated fees to book Merryl Tengesdal are for live events and for virtual events. For the most current speaking fee to hire Merryl Tengesdal, 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 Merryl Tengesdal speak about?

    Merryl Tengesdal is a keynote speaker and industry expert whose speaking topics include Authors, Black Heritage, Black History Month, Leadership, Military, Motivational, Overcoming Adversity, Resilience, Veterans, Women.
  • Where does Merryl Tengesdal travel from?

    Merryl Tengesdal generally travels from Roseville, CA, 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.
  • Who is Merryl Tengesdal’s agent?

    AAE Speakers Bureau has successfully booked keynote speakers like Merryl Tengesdal 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 Merryl Tengesdal for your next private or corporate function.
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Merryl Tengesdal is a keynote speaker and industry expert who speaks on a wide range of topics . The estimated speaking fee range to book Merryl Tengesdal for your event is $20,000 - $30,000. Merryl Tengesdal generally travels from Roseville, CA, USA and can be booked for (private) corporate events, personal appearances, keynote speeches, or other performances. Similar motivational celebrity speakers are Shannon Huffman Polson, Brent Gleeson, Cady Coleman, Carey Lohrenz and Vernice "FlyGirl" Armour. Contact All American Speakers for ratings, reviews, videos and information on scheduling Merryl Tengesdal for an upcoming live or virtual event.

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