


"Ken is a great guy and has many interesting and funny stories from his experiences of life. This book will hopefully encourage you to shoot for the stars and achieve things you only initially dreamt about. Take inspiration from Ken and this book that you can achieve more than you think and have fun along the way."
"A wonderful story about saving lives in the ocean and moving beyond to space. Ken explains his journey beautifully sharing his days as a lifeguard and how those lessons learned took him to NASA, once again serving our greater good."
"Early recognition of No Straight Lines to the Stars was further reinforced by editorial review released on August 7, 2026, which proclaimed, “Author Ken Kisco Makes a Brilliant Debut.” The reviewer described the book as a “brilliant piece of work” that “left a deep impression,” praising the authenticity of its stories and characters and the emotional connection they created."

Now Available
No Straight Lines to the Stars
An Unlikely Journey from Lifeguard Tower to Launchpad
by Ken Kisco
Part memoir, part leadership guide, and part behind-the-scenes look at America’s space enterprise, No Straight Lines to the Stars: An Unlikely Journey from Lifeguard Tower to Launchpad is an inspiring testament to the idea that ordinary beginnings, when matched with grit, discipline, and belief, can lead to extraordinary destinations.
Upcoming Events

Author Event &
Book Signing at
Carlsbad Village Books
640 Grand Ave A,
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Thursday, September 17, 2026
3:00pm to 4:00pm
Meet The Author
Ken has lived a life shaped by purpose, resilience, and an unwavering belief in reaching for the extraordinary. Inspired as a young boy to contribute to America’s Space Program, he built an exceptional foundation through rigorous academics and real-world experience. He graduated with honors from San Diego State University with dual degrees in Biology and Psychology, later earning master’s degrees from the University of Southern California in Systems Management and from San Jose State University in Industrial Psychology.
Before entering aerospace, Ken honed his calm under pressure as a California Ocean Lifeguard, skills that would later prove indispensable at NASA, Rockwell International, and Boeing. As an Aerospace Systems Engineer, he helped develop Decision Support Systems technology, conducted underwater neutral buoyancy tests supporting astronaut EVA missions, and contributed to classified DOD space programs. His innovative work and leadership earned him recognition as an AIAA Fellow, as well as honors for remarkable acts of lifesaving bravery.
Today, Ken shares his passion for exploration and excellence by mentoring USC engineering students, inspiring the next generation to dream boldly and push beyond perceived limits. Outside his professional achievements, Ken and his wife embrace a shared love of world travel, journeying together to extraordinary destinations across the globe.




