During Women’s History Month, NASA’s Langley Research Center recognizes the significant contributions of Melanie Grande, a valuable member of their team in mission design and systems analysis. Since joining the team as a Pathways co-op student in 2016, Grande has been integral to planning for human expeditions to the Moon and Mars. Presently, as an aerospace engineer on the Mars Architecture Team, she tackles the intricate planning and multitude of decisions surrounding Mars exploration missions.
Who or what inspired you to choose your career and why?
A transformative class trip to NASA Kennedy Space Center during her middle school years captivated Melanie’s imagination, leading her to aspire to become an astronaut. Her subsequent interest in engineering was driven by the desire to creatively solve complex problems. This led her to study aerospace engineering and ultimately land a role in SMAB, allowing her to address the grand challenges in human space exploration.
What do you find most rewarding about working with NASA?
Grande finds profound inspiration in NASA’s mission to venture into space. The collective effort and passion from colleagues at Langley equally motivates her, knowing NASA’s reputation as the world’s premier space exploration agency is built on daily commitments to overcoming mission challenges. Additionally, she values the encouragement from her team to pursue growth and new ventures that have significantly shaped her career.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
Beyond her primary role, Melanie invests her interest in public policy, especially as it underpins the regulatory framework essential for aerospace and human exploration. She plays an active role as the Co-Chair of the Advocacy Working Group for the AIAA Public Policy Committee. Her participation extends to organizing awareness events and advocating for aerospace issues. Recreational activities such as travel, skiing, and crochet also occupy her interests outside work.
How does your background and heritage contribute to your perspective and approach in your role at NASA?
As a woman in the field of engineering, Grande is acutely conscious of her status as a member of a minority group. While this presented challenges earlier, her family’s support and a unified cohort during college were foundational. She celebrates the increasing presence of female leaders at NASA and underscores the importance of leveraging diverse perspectives to achieve ambitious goals like Mars exploration.
FAQ Section
What role does Melanie Grande play at NASA?
As an aerospace engineer in the Mars Architecture Team at NASA’s Langley Research Center, Melanie Grande is engaged in the strategic planning and intricate modeling required for potential Mars missions.
How did Melanie Grande become interested in an aerospace career?
Grande’s passion for space and aerospace engineering was ignited during a middle school trip to NASA Kennedy Space Center. This experience ultimately directed her to pursue aerospace engineering and contribute to human space exploration with NASA.
In what capacity does Melanie Grande contribute to public policy?
Grande serves as the Co-Chair of the Advocacy Working Group for the AIAA Public Policy Committee, which involves organizing events and pursuing advocacy efforts for aerospace industry-related policy.
Conclusion
In celebrating Women’s History Month, Melanie Grande’s story is a testament to the remarkable roles women fulfill in furthering space exploration. Her journey from an inspired student to a leader on the Mars Architecture Team encapsulates the aspirations that drive NASA’s pioneering spirit. Her influence extends beyond technical contributions, advocating for essential policy changes and serving as an exemplary role model for up-and-coming women in STEM fields.