Name: Raquel Marshall
Title: Project Manager
Formal Job Classification: Program Specialist
Organization: Code 160, Office of Education
Raquel Marshall uses project management methods to meet NASA’s education mission.
What do you do and what is most interesting about your role here at Goddard? How do you help support Goddard’s mission?
I work in the Office of Education. I am a second-career educator. I was an electrical engineer and a project manager for more than 10 years prior to transitioning to a 10-year career in education. I also have state education experience. My role in the Office of Education at NASA Goddard is to provide subject matter expertise in the field of education and project management for the implementation of NASA’s Education Implementation Plan.
What is a typical day on the job like for you?
I mostly work on strategic, programmatic work. I work with external partners to make sure whatever we do in the Office of Education at Goddard supports NASA’s goals and is aligned with our customers’ strategic plans.
What did you want to be when you were younger?
I’ve always been told I exhibit leadership qualities. I’m highly influenced by my parents. My father was a computer scientist. He bought a computer (I think it was a Commodore 64) and sat me at my desk and taught me the BASIC programming language as a child. This experience was impressed upon me. My mom was a special education educator who had a passion for students, and her passion rubbed off on me. I guess that’s why I am who I am – a technical female with a passion for education.
Why did you choose your profession?
I chose engineering initially because I was good at math in high school, and I had a teacher who persuaded me. Later in college, I had very supportive professors who encouraged me to continue in the field. I chose education probably because I had that passion instilled in me from my mother.
Why did you come to work at Goddard?
The name NASA means so much to all of us. I didn’t know all of the intricacies of the research that NASA does, particularly at Goddard, but I knew that it was a great organization to work for. In seeking opportunities to merge my engineering background with my education skills, I knew that NASA was a perfect fit for me.
What makes you stay at Goddard?
There’s a culture here that is welcoming. It is also innovative and creative. NASA is open to exploration and to doing “new things” that I think I am drawn to.
Who is the most interesting, inspiring, or amazing person that you have met or worked with at Goddard?
Astronomer Dr. Michelle Thaller is one of the most interesting people I’ve met. She blows my mind with the knowledge and understanding she has about her field. The way she communicates to those of us who are not in the science field makes us feel as though we are on the same level as her. I’ve met so many others who are interesting but she’s one who stood out to me.
What is the coolest thing you’ve ever done as part of your job at Goddard?
The coolest thing I’ve done so far is infusing project management methodology in processes for education. I am proud of envisioning and leading the development of the Intern Communication Environment. I am also proud of envisioning and leading the Online Intern Speed Networking Event with the center advisory committees.
What was your best day or the best thing that ever happened to you at Goddard?
I think most of my days at Goddard have been purposeful and fulfilling, which to me qualify as good days.
What lessons or words of wisdom would you pass along to somebody just starting their career at Goddard?
I would offer that you be open to speak and network with different members and staff people at Goddard. Also, take advantage of the science colloquiums, presentations and trainings that are offered here.
By Brianna L. Jordan
NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, Md.
Conversations With Goddard is a collection of Q&A profiles highlighting the breadth and depth of NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center’s talented and diverse workforce. The Conversations have been published twice a month on average since May 2011. Read past editions on Goddard’s “Our People” webpage.
