Veteran Profile: Deborah Lockhart
NASA Role:
Public Engagement Specialist at Glenn Research Center
Military Service:
Air Force
Can you briefly describe your military experience?
I was an E-5, Staff Sergeant in Public Affairs/Photojournalist. When I joined the Air Force, I served as a basic still photographer within the Public Affairs Office. My career field merged with traditional public affairs and we became photojournalists. I was lucky to work with a variety of leaders both in the military and in the community. I have experience in conducting external communications, event planning, internal communications, photography, media relations, digital media, and public engagement.
How are you involved with the Veterans Community at NASA?
I’ve been part of the Veterans Awareness Committee since starting at NASA Glenn in 2016. I am currently part of a small group of veterans in the Northeast Ohio Area who are dedicated to providing information on career-building resources, educational benefit information and skills training to local veterans. We aspire to make a positive impact in the lives of veterans in NE Ohio.
How has your military experience helped you in your role at NASA?
I draw from my military experiences and training every day. From leadership to followership, diversity and resilience, teamwork, structure, planning…. everything I learned during my service can apply to my current position.
How do veterans or military spouses benefit NASA?
Cultivating a fundamental sense of belonging within our workforce is key to continuing NASA’s legacy of inclusion and keeping our agency as one of the best places to work. Veterans and their spouses are an underutilized asset in most organizations. However, I want the world to know that veterans bring so much value, diversity and experience to all kinds of teams — especially NASA.
What advice would you give to veterans or military spouses that are interested in a career at NASA?
You belong here. You are valued here. You are accepted and celebrated here. You matter, and you can make a difference. You can use your skills to help us inspire the next generation of explorers, advance technology, and continue your service to our country. Just be brave enough to apply, show up, and try.
