The Artemis II test flight now slated for early March marks a historic milestone in humanity’s journey back to the Moon, paving the way for deeper space exploration and a new era of discovery. This mission, the first crewed flight in the National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s (NASA) Artemis program, represents the culmination of years of innovation, dedication and collaboration.
Behind this monumental achievement are the brilliant minds and tireless efforts of the employees who brought this vision to life. From engineers, technicians and inspectors to project managers and support teams responsible for scheduling and ground operations, their passion and expertise have propelled this mission from concept to reality.
Here’s a look at several ASRC Federal employees who support the Orion program, including why their work matters to the success of this Artemis mission. Congratulations to everyone on the ASRC Federal Orion and Artemis teams – we celebrate your commitment to excellence, ingenuity and teamwork!
What is your role in this NASA program, and how did your contributions help bring this historic test flight to life?
I develop and manage requirements that define Orion’s integration and processing activities, ensuring the spacecraft meets mission objectives. After NASA takes ownership of the Artemis vehicle, I support its processing, coordinate launch preparation activities and help resolve any technical issues that may arise.
What is one highlight from your work on the Orion program or supporting Artemis II that you’re most proud of?
I worked with a team to develop, design and test the new thermal barrier plugs to meet Artemis II mission requirements. The new plug design significantly cuts installation time and accelerates the closeout process. I developed a plan and fixture for a vibration test to qualify the new plug design and selected the plugs to be used for the first launch attempt.
Why My Work Matters (In Their Own Words):
I’m honored to contribute to the exploration of space, humanity’s return to the Moon, and eventually to Mars and beyond. Every day brings challenging problems that require close collaboration to keep the vehicle and crew safe. Being part of this historic mission is truly indescribable.
Personal Fun Fact:
When I was 7 years old, I sat in the seats used for NASA’s Exploration Flight Test-1 (EFT-1), which was the first flight test of the crew module portion of the Orion spacecraft!
What do you love about working at ASRC Federal?
I love the collaborative, positive culture and the great people at ASRC Federal. The company’s core values – integrity, accountability and continuous improvement – are values that I hold in high regard. Being part of an organization that contributes to something much larger than an individual is truly special.
What is your role in this NASA program, and how did your contributions help bring this historic test flight to life?
My team is responsible for creating manufacturing work instructions and supporting the production floor during the assembly and testing of Orion’s wire harnesses. This includes reviewing engineering drawings, determining the manufacturability of new designs and creating solutions for problems that occur during the manufacturing process.
What is one highlight from your work on the Orion program or supporting Artemis II that you’re most proud of?
I’m proud of spearheading the creation of a new production line of cables for Orion that were previously purchased from a vendor. This involved meeting numerous requirements and the development of all new testing procedures and manufacturing techniques. This will enable the Orion production team to be more independent and have a higher level of control over product quality.
Why My Work Matters (In Their Own Words):
I’m incredibly proud to work on America’s space program and be a small part of the exceptional team sending astronauts back to the Moon. I think NASA’s Artemis program not only serves to advance our Nation’s technological abilities, but will inspire people from all around the world.
Orion Fun Fact:
The Orion spacecraft has over 20 miles of wires running through it to connect and power all of its systems!
What do you love about working at ASRC Federal?
The people – I’m part of an amazing team with some of the best people you could ever ask to work with. I’ve learned so much from them, and they’ve helped me grow professionally and personally.
What is your role in this NASA program, and how did your contributions help bring this historic test flight to life?
I work on the Orion program as a make part planner for the crew module adapter, service module and crew service module. I serve as the intermediary between production operational needs and procurement activities to ensure materials and parts are available and ready to use for scheduled installation. I also assist with the maintenance of production orders, on-floor inventory and bill of materials integrity.
What is one highlight from your work on the Orion program or supporting Artemis II that you’re most proud of?
Comparatively speaking, being one of few individuals worldwide to contribute to the historic Artemis II Orion capsule is truly an extraordinary honor and humbling experience.
Why My Work Matters (In Their Own Words):
Our work matters because our efforts on the Artemis program create a lasting impact beyond the mission itself.
Personal Fun Fact:
Just over eight years ago, my husband and I moved from our small towns in Maine – western Maine for me, mid-coast Maine for him – to Florida; both of us work on the Orion program.
What do you love about working at ASRC Federal?
I have the privilege to work alongside and learn from truly brilliant individuals. I am continually impressed by their knowledge, collaboration and passion for the mission.
