John F. Hall, Jr. has had a distinguished career in international relations, international law, and space policy. He received his education in international relations and international law at Georgetown University and Washington and Lee University. During his studies, he spent time in Moscow, Russia, and Warsaw, Poland, focusing on his areas of interest. Before joining NASA, Hall worked for four years in the United States Senate on the staff of Senator Pete Domenici from New Mexico. He then moved to a law firm in Washington, DC, which is now known as K&L Gates LLP. Hall joined NASA in 1994 and played a significant role in establishing the agency's first Export Control Program. He also contributed to the drafting and execution of the International Space Station (ISS) Intergovernmental Agreement and the Memoranda of Understanding with the ISS partners and participating agencies in 1998. His contributions mainly concerned export control, the transfer of goods and technical data, customs provisions, and the Code of Conduct for the International Space Station. In 2000, Hall moved to a new position as NASA Export Control Administrator, a role he was well-qualified for, given his previous work and experience. He was interested in becoming a member of the Senior Executive Service, and this position offered him that opportunity. Throughout his career at NASA, Hall worked under several Administrators, each with their own leadership style. He had high praise for all of them, particularly Charles F. Bolden, Jr., whom he described as approachable, compassionate, and honest.

July 19, 2017:  The interview with John Hall, Jr. provides a comprehensive overview of his professional background and career trajectory leading up to his tenure at NASA, which began in 1994. Hall's educational qualifications in international relations and law are highlighted, as well as his prior work experience in the United States Senate and the Department of Commerce. Hall details his instrumental role in the creation of NASA's first Export Control Program. This program was pivotal in managing the transfer of technical data related to the International Space Station (ISS) and ensuring compliance with export control regulations. He reflects on the complexities and significance of transitioning the ISS's technical data oversight from the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) to the jurisdiction of the Commerce Department. The interview delves into Hall's involvement in the high-stakes negotiations of the ISS Intergovernmental Agreement and the associated Memoranda of Understanding. Hall's contributions were particularly focused on establishing criminal jurisdiction and a Code of Conduct for the ISS partnership. His narrative provides insights into the diplomatic and legal challenges faced during these negotiations. Hall discusses the political and legislative initiatives of the early 1990s aimed at involving Russia in international space cooperation. He references the passage of a law by Congress to assist Russia in controlling the proliferation of missile and nuclear technologies, which subsequently led to the Comprehensive Threat Reduction effort and a contract with Russia for joint space activities. The interview covers the regulatory framework governing international space cooperation, including Hall's management of international technology transfer policy and his navigation of export control and nonproliferation issues. Hall also addresses the implications of the Iran Nonproliferation Act and other legislative restrictions on NASA's collaborative efforts with international partners. Hall reflects on the influence of various policy changes and significant events on the operations of the NASA Export Control Program. He cites the Cox Committee report, alterations in export control rules, and the Vision for Space Exploration as key factors. Additionally, he discusses the repercussions of the September 11 attacks and the Columbia Shuttle accident on his responsibilities and the broader context of space policy. The interview concludes with Hall's commentary on NASA's engagement with the United Nations and its committees, particularly the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS). 

August 4, 2017: In this interview, John F. Hall, Jr. reflects on his role in shaping space policies across various U.S. presidential administrations. Hall discusses his contributions to the National Space Policy and Space Transportation Policy, detailing the complexities and interagency negotiations that accompany policy formulation. He touches upon the revival of the National Space Council and contemplates potential amendments to the Outer Space Treaty, particularly concerning sovereignty and property rights in space. Hall also addresses the influence of different NASA administrators on the agency's direction and underscores the significance of international collaboration in NASA's endeavors. He takes pride in his involvement with the Export Control Program at NASA, considering it a notable accomplishment. Further, Hall speaks about his legal contributions, including his work on the International Space Station Intergovernmental Agreement and the regulation for duty-free entry. Despite finding it challenging to leave NASA, he commends the commitment and effort of his colleagues.