Since 2005, Gerstenmaier has been responsible for overseeing the International Space Station and Space Shuttle programs, space communications and space launch vehicles.

Lesa B. Roe, director of NASA Langley Research Center in Virginia, former NASA Administrator Mike Griffin, NASA Johnson Space Center Director Mike Coats, and RNASA Advisor and Apollo 17 Astronaut Harrison Schmitt nominated Gerstenmaier for the National Space Trophy.

"Gerstenmaier's career achievements and personal initiatives have had a direct impact on the current U.S. human space flight program, the international community, and residents of planet Earth," said Roe. "His efforts will continue to shape the future of space exploration for many years to come."

Griffin said, "It was my honor to work with Bill for four years. Quite simply, Bill Gerstenmaier is regarded as the ultimate authority on the space shuttle and International Space Station. When he says something, people listen, and they know that what he says is true."

Coats added, "Bill's impact in the space community is unparalleled. He has literally guided an international group of thousands of individuals in many countries in furthering human space flight and assuring a continued human presence in space. The partnerships we currently enjoy with our international partners for the ISS are largely due to Bill's tremendous efforts and diligence."

Gerstenmaier will formally be recognized at a RNASA gala on April 30. The seven-foot, 500-pound lead crystal trophy is on display at Space Center Houston.