HUNTSVILLE — Calling Jared Isaacman a “strategic and assertive administrator,” Gov. Kay Ivey threw her support behind Isaacman’s nomination as NASA administrator.

Isaacman, a graduate of Space Camp at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, was nominated for the post by President Trump. He is the billionaire founder of payment processing company Shift4 and a private astronaut who commanded two Crew Dragon missions.

The Senate has yet to schedule a confirmation hearing on his nomination.

Ivey wrote a letter to Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), chairman of the Senate Commerce Committee which would hold the hearing, and Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), the committee’s ranking member, praising Isaacman.

“As a space explorer, entrepreneurial leader and strong advocate for STEM education, Mr. Isaacman is an exceptional selection for this critical role,” she wrote. ” … with China’s global and cosmic ambitions, it is imperative that the United States of America maintain our leadership in space exploration, technological innovation and national security.

“For this reason, I believe it is as important as ever for NASA to be led by a strategic and assertive administrator.”

Ivey also cited Alabama’s contribution to the space program through the Marshall Space Flight Center and Space Camp – the world’s largest and longest running STEM camp. She also credited Isaacman’s support of the Space & Rocket Center through his funding of the Inspirational Skills Training Center.

The governor closed her letter by calling on the senators to “prioritize Mr. Isaacman’s committee confirmation hearing.”