Tom Sayers: NASA IV&V Software Systems Engineer

What is your educational/experience background and what influenced you to choose it?

I chose a career in computers when I enlisted in the U.S. Air Force after graduating high school. It seemed to be a wise choice when considering what career field would be in demand after military service. I worked towards my undergraduate degree while on active duty, but a growing family and deployments took precedence. My work experience lead to a wonderful IT career after separating and I earned my degree in Information Systems (IS) shortly after my fourth child was born.

What is your current role/position at IV&V?

I am an IV&V analyst on one of the Artemis Orion teams that focuses on Displays and Controls (DAC) for the Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle (MPCV).

What’s your favorite part of your job?

It’s a toss-up between the mission and the people since the two go hand in hand. I thought this was your typical IV&V operation, but I have quickly discovered “NASA’s Little Secret” is anything but typical. While in Houston at the Johnson Space Center, tourists of any age had the same look of wonder and awe as they looked at the past, present, and future of NASA. Maybe they were dreaming about being an astronaut or simply sharing in the pride of our country. The tourists weren’t the only ones who demonstrated this level of excitement. Anyone involved in any facet of the mission exuded pride and expressed their passion to be part of the NASA family. I never experienced a workplace such as NASA IV&V.

Who or what has shaped you personally or professionally? 

I started working while I was young and my father gave me a lot of good advice that I still pass along to others. He led by example and I learned about the need for a strong work ethic. I have had a handful of managers who either provided me with words of wisdom or personally demonstrated methods that convinced me to change for the better. Whether you personally recognize room for improvement or receive constructive criticism, always look for ways to improve yourself.

What advice would you have for anyone wanting to work for NASA?      

Go for it! I had zero experience in aerospace, but that didn’t keep me from applying. I met people from the team, sat down for an interview, and the rest has been an amazing journey.

Are you involved in any organizations/clubs at IV&V?

There are a number of advisory committees at NASA that allow people to join groups with similar interests. I am currently a member with the Veterans Advisory Committee, C/C++ Mentoring, Diversity & Inclusion, and others. Numerous groups have popped up over time and it provides a great opportunity for people to share knowledge, stories, or meet in person to enjoy as a group.

What do you like to do outside of work? Any hobbies or activities?

I find too many DIY projects online and either replicate or put my own spin on them. Woodworking, electronics, landscaping, aquascaping, home improvement, hiking, biking, and recently rekindling an old passion of mine with a Ducati café racer motorcycle I purchased in 2021.