Note: This analysis uses AI to help identify potential outreach strategies for space science issues. Because it uses AI, it is important to understand the sources and limitations of this analysis.
Space-related committee assignments (if present), and additional sources (if present), are from congress.gov and a direct output of a targeted web search.
Opportunities, challenges, overall summary, and preparation recommendations are products of AI analyses. The biography uses AI to summarize key aspects of the member's Wikipedia page.
All AI-generated claims, assessments, and recommendations should be independently verified.
This is an experimental feature, and intended to provide guidance and inspiration for outreach strategies for your meeting. Feedback is welcome: casey.dreier@planetary.org.
Overall Summary
Representative Schneider's lack of direct committee assignments related to space policy and his extensive focus on diverse domestic priorities like economic development and healthcare suggest that increased NASA space science funding may not be a primary legislative focus. This broad agenda could make it challenging to gain his dedicated attention for the proposed 47% cut to NASA's Science Mission Directorate.
Nevertheless, his background in industrial engineering and public support for local scientific R&D facilities indicate an appreciation for technical fields and innovation. Critically, a company in his district received a significant NASA Science contract for a toxic gas monitoring system, providing a direct economic benefit from NASA's work. Emphasizing these local ties and the broader impact of scientific leadership could foster receptiveness to advocacy for robust investment in NASA's space science activities.
Preparation Recommendations
Consider how increased investment in NASA's space science activities can be framed as an investment in innovation, job creation, and economic growth, aligning with Representative Schneider's background in industrial engineering and management consulting.
Explore how the toxic gas monitoring system provided by Honeywell Analytics in Lincolnshire, while not explicitly "science" in the contract description, is vital for the safety and success of NASA missions, including those with significant space science components.
Look into potential connections between NASA's space science research and institutions in his district, such as Northwestern University or other R&D facilities, to highlight local benefits and expertise.
About Bradley Scott Schneider
Earned a Bachelor of Science in industrial engineering from Northwestern University.
Worked professionally as an industrial engineer and management consultant.
Holds a Master of Business Administration from Northwestern's Kellogg School.
Founded and led his own consulting company, Cadence Consulting Group.
Opportunities
Support for Interagency NASA Research: Representative Schneider was a member of the House when H.R.1368, the DOE and NASA Interagency Research Coordination Act, passed by voice vote, indicating broad support for collaborative research between the two agencies, including areas relevant to space science like dark matter. (Congress.gov, 2025-03-24)
General Endorsement of Science and Innovation Leadership: Representative Schneider has publicly stated that "President Biden ensured America leads the world in science and innovation," indicating a general positive view on federal investment in these areas. (Congressman Brad Schneider, 2025-01-23)
STEM Background: His academic background includes a Bachelor of Science in industrial engineering from Northwestern University, which is located in his district, suggesting an understanding and appreciation for scientific and technical fields. ()
Support for Local Scientific R&D Facilities: He publicly supported the groundbreaking of UL Solutions' Global Fire Science Center of Excellence in Northbrook, IL, within his district, emphasizing the importance of "applied safety science" and "innovation." (Congressman Brad Schneider, 2025-08-26)
District's Engagement with NASA Contracts: A company in his district, Honeywell Analytics Inc. in Lincolnshire, IL, received a NASA contract for a toxic gas monitoring detection system, demonstrating a direct economic connection to NASA's operations. (USAspending, FY2022-FY2024)
Challenges
Lack of Space-Related Committee Assignments: Representative Schneider does not hold any current space-related committee assignments in the 119th Congress, which may limit his direct legislative influence or proactive engagement on NASA's space science and exploration activities. (space_committees, N/A)
Competing Legislative Priorities: Representative Schneider's public statements and legislative focus frequently emphasize domestic issues such as economic development, healthcare, gun violence prevention, and immigration, indicating a broad range of priorities that may compete for attention and federal funding. (LegiStorm, 2025-09-04; Rep. Brad Schneider Official Press Release, 2024-03-06; YouTube, 2025-09-12)
Limited Direct NASA SMD Economic Ties: The public record indicates no direct, relevant NASA Science Mission Directorate contracts or grants within his district, which could reduce a strong local economic incentive for increased investment in these specific NASA activities. (USAspending, FY2022-FY2024)