NASA astronaut Christina Koch honored with the Order of the Tar Heel

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- North Carolina Labor Commissioner Luke Farley welcomed Christina Koch, a NASA astronaut and North Carolina native, to Raleigh on Wednesday as part of her home-state tour celebrating the Artemis II mission.

Christina Koch, who grew up in Jacksonville, served as a member of NASA's Artemis II crew, the agency's first crewed lunar flyby mission in more than 50 years. State leaders said the event highlighted her accomplishments and encouraged students to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

The event, titled "From North Carolina Workplaces to the Moon: Safety, Skilled Trades, and the Artemis II Workforce," was held at the N.C. Department of Labor building on West Edenton Street.

During his remarks, Farley recognized Koch's contributions to space exploration and discussed the role North Carolina's workforce plays in supporting major scientific and technological achievements. He also presented her with the Order of the Tar Heel, a distinction recognizing people who embody the very best of what it means to be a North Carolinian.

Koch delivered remarks and answered questions from members of the media during the event.

Students in attendance also participated in an interactive question-and-answer session with Koch, who shared details about her career journey, experiences as an astronaut and path to NASA.

According to the Department of Labor, the event highlighted the importance of workplace safety, skilled trades, engineering and other technical careers that support missions such as Artemis and other major scientific endeavors.

Officials said Koch's visit was part of a broader effort to showcase career opportunities in North Carolina and inspire the next generation of students to pursue STEM-related fields.