What I do

My work involves developing new Thermal Protection Materials. Recently, work on Ultra High Temperature Ceramics (UHTCs) included developing manufacturing processing methods, which is challenging because of their extremely high melting temperatures. The higher the temperature, the more rigorous is the process. After development, we test the materials to see how they perform in a simulated reentry environment.

My career path

I have a PhD in Materials Science and Engineering from the University of Washington. I was a postdoc at Sandia National Laboratories before moving to Ames in 2000. There, I was involved in the processing of metal ceramic composites, trying to improve the durability of the ceramics by mixing them with metals, thereby taking advantage of both materials.

In college, I was a physics major but I learned I did not like it. My next step was chemistry, but this was not a fit. I investigated different engineering disciplines, but due to my strong background in chemistry, I was offered a job in a materials science laboratory. It turned out to be a good career path, and I liked the idea of understanding how materials work through investigation of properties, etc. I took advantage of working in a laboratory and was involved in a cooperative program at Boeing which led me to pursue graduate work in materials science.

A typical day

Collaboration is key to my work. A sister branch is involved in computational fluid dynamics (CFD), and another is involved in Arc Jet testing. One group helps determine the temperature regime requirements and the other helps determine the relevant test, and then performs it. I also collaborate with other researchers to develop thermal protection materials to be tested, and to learn from those with knowledge of existing materials.

What I like about my job

The best part of my job is the collaboration. I love to learn about the CFD environment, new classes of materials and testing. We are trained to be research oriented, but what is required is to be able to apply the work to a real vehicle. One of the biggest highlights since I joined was being able to tour the Shuttle, to see the vehicle itself and also the launch facility.

Advice for a student

My advice would be to explore a lot of options as early as you can. Do not be afraid to switch if there is not a fit. Take advantage of different opportunities: working in labs, work experience, and international study. This will give you a broad range of experience.

The hardest part of any job is not the technical part, but the interaction with people. It is also the most rewarding. Everyone has a different background and perspective. Most of the time everything goes smoothly, but you cannot take it too personally, and it is important to look at the situation from the other person’s perspective.

In addition, it is important to have a well-rounded life. Work to live, not live to work. Don't let work or school become everything you have. Do well in school, it is one of the times in your life when you have the least amount of responsibility, and this is for you, so enjoy the freedom and explore different things.