What makes your job at NASA exciting or unique?
I have the honor and privilege of leading NASA’s Near Space Network (NSN), a single point of contact for missions in the near-space region. We support missions through their entire lifecycle through a blend of government and commercial providers. It is exciting to be part of the team setting up the next generation of network services that will establish a foundation for how these services are provided in the coming decades.
How does your job contribute to the Artemis missions and beyond?
The NSN is committed to support missions in the near-space region. I take pride in leading the NSN team, which is ensuring that the Artemis missions are supported throughout their entire lifecycles. I lead a team that is collaborating with Artemis mission elements to devise a comprehensive network support solution. I am part of the team that will send humans back to the Moon. Beyond Artemis, I also have the privilege of leading the team that provides full lifecycle support to a variety of Earth Science, Space Science, Human Space Flight, SmallSat, and Launch Vehicle missions.
What was your inspiration growing up?
I have always been inspired by Albert Einstein. His theory of everything being relative and his quote, “If you can’t explain it simply, you don’t understand it well enough,” have been inspiring in particular.
What’s your favorite thing about working for NASA?
Simply put, it’s cool! Starting every day knowing that I am working as part of the team that makes a difference and contributes to humankind is a matter of honor and pride.