Navigating the Path to NASA: Qualifications and Experiences

My journey to NASA began with a PhD in chemistry, but it wasn't until I landed my first contract position that I truly entered the space agency. I came to NASA's Glenn Research Center (then known as Lewis) as an NRC Postdoc in the late 1980s. After a brief hiring freeze, I was finally offered a position as a Civil Servant in 1987. By this time, I had extensive experience in both research and industry, setting the stage for a career that aligned with my lifelong passion for space exploration.

PhD and Early Experiences

PHD in Chemistry: My PhD in chemistry was the foundation upon which I built my career at NASA. I had done my postdoc at the National Research Council (NRC) and worked on a university contract in the same department where I was hired. This experience with NASA was crucial in understanding the agency's research priorities and contributed to my eventual full-time position. The path from PhD to Civil Servant was not straightforward, but dedication and persistence ultimately paid off.

Current Career at NASA

Currently, I work as a NASA contractor at the Johnson Space Center (JSC) for just over five months. Joining NASA was always a dream, and my decision to study electrical engineering over physics was a strategic move to align with NASA's interests. My electrical engineering degree, with a focus on applied electromagnetics, has been instrumental in my current position, where I use advanced modeling tools like HFSS (High Frequency Structure Simulator) for antenna systems analysis.

Path to Employment at NASA

Location and Accessibility: The University of Houston (UH) played a significant role in my journey to NASA. Despite initial reservations, attending UH was a turning point. Its proximity to the Johnson Space Center in Houston made it easier to pursue research and internships related to NASA. Additionally, the large number of NASA alumni from UH suggests a strong connection between the university and the space agency, providing numerous opportunities for students.

Research Connections at UH: UH has a robust relationship with NASA, particularly at the faculty level. One of my professors was a dual professor-NASA engineer, and several of my friends also had this same opportunity. This connection ensured that much of the engineering research at UH was relevant to NASA. By working on projects related to CubeSats and spacesuits, I gained practical experience that would be valuable for a full-time NASA job.

Internship Experience: Another significant factor in my journey was the multiple internships I had at JSC. I initially applied for an internship working on CubeSat attitude algorithms but it didn't work out. Nevertheless, I was able to secure an internship in spacesuit hardware testing and another in the spacesuit radio system. These internships not only provided valuable technical skills but also networking opportunities. Engaging with NASA personnel and expressing my interest in full-time employment after graduation led to job offers and helped me make connections that were crucial for my career advancement.

Key Qualifications and Experiences

My qualifications for working at NASA include:

Relevant Degree and Specialization: A 3.8 GPA in electrical engineering with a focus on applied electromagnetics from the University of Houston. Technical Skills: Experience with HFSS (High Frequency Structure Simulator) for antenna systems analysis. Research Experience: Projects on CubeSats and spacesuits, providing hands-on experience relevant to NASA's interests. Internship Experience: Multiple internships at JSC, particularly in areas related to NASA's space exploration efforts. Networking and Connections: Building professional relationships with NASA personnel that could lead to future job opportunities.

While my career path may seem extensive and specialized, every journey to NASA is unique. From PhD students to experienced engineers, the agency's diverse workforce reflects a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. Whether you are a physics student looking to switch to engineering, or a researcher with a specific skill set, there might be a path to NASA just waiting for the right qualifications and passion.

As I continue my work on antenna systems, particularly for the ISS and commercial vehicles, I find fulfillment in knowing that my contributions align with the agency's goals and visions. Whether you share my journey or are embarking on a different path to NASA, the key is to stay committed, passionate, and open to opportunities.

Conclusion

Exploring the path to NASA involves a combination of academic achievements, internships, and networking. My story is a testament to the opportunities that can arise from a strategic approach to both education and career planning. For those interested in joining NASA, it's important to identify areas of expertise that align with the agency's needs and to engage actively with the research community and industry professionals.