Faces of SLS: Jonathan Looser

It’s extremely rewarding to know that the product of your work plays such a critical part on the journey to putting humans on Mars. As SLS core stage propulsion lead at the Marshall Center, I oversee the design, construction, test and performance of the SLS core stage propulsion systems. It’s an once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to work on a project of this magnitude from conception to flight. What I love most about my job is the amazing team I get to work with each and every day. 

I think growing up in the “Rocket City” of Huntsville, Alabama, gave me a deep appreciation for the space program and the work happening in pursuit of NASA’s missions. My original path as a student at the University of Alabama in Huntsville was to get a degree in political science and go to law school. I took one political science class and decided it wasn’t for me. I had always enjoyed and done well in math and science classes, so I decided to give engineering a try. I’m glad I did.

My experience at NASA started while I was still in college. During my junior year, I took part in a cooperative education program supporting Marshall’s Space Shuttle Program Office. One of my early mentors was my manager, Alex McCool. His passion for the work, and care for the people around him, left a lasting impression on me that I hope I carry on to the team that I now lead.

It’s important for me to see SLS fly, and will be a testament to years of hard work by people across the nation to build this rocket. It’s a critical next step in the future of America’s space program.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family – especially watching and coaching my kids in sports. I want them to know that STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) education opens career paths that are almost limitless. The heart of STEM is problem solving, and problem solving is so important in life — no matter what career path you choose.