NASA Welcomes Jeret Howard as a Civil Servant

Jeret Howard, a logistics management specialist at NASA’s Stennis Space Center, has transitioned from a long-time contractor to a civil servant. This move signifies a continuation of his commitment to national service, mirroring his early dedication as a U.S. Army combat medic at age 17.

Howard spent over 15 years at the Stennis Space Center as a contractor, working as a mechanical technician and contributing to the infrastructure of the rocket propulsion test site. His new role as a civil servant, part of an agency initiative to strengthen technical expertise within its workforce, holds deep personal meaning for him.

“It is absolutely a continuation of service,” Howard stated. “It is a point of pride to go from being a 17-year-old just wanting to serve your country to coming full circle like this, hoping to one day retire from NASA.”

In his capacity as a logistics management specialist, Howard is responsible for procuring the necessary hardware and components for propulsion testing. His extensive technical experience allows him to anticipate the engineering team's needs and ensure taxpayer funds are used efficiently. He actively collaborates with new technicians and supports testing for various projects, including preparations for Blue Origin’s testing at NASA Stennis.

Howard finds the mechanical work to be a rewarding challenge, describing it as a puzzle with constant opportunities for learning. He values applying his hard-earned skills to his current role.

His motivation for public service is deeply connected to his home in Kiln, Mississippi. Howard sees his career as an opportunity to be a role model for his children, inspiring them with his dedication.

“My little girl can look at me, be proud, and know she can do anything,” he shared. This sentiment extends to his teenage son, who aspires to be a NASA engineer. The family emphasizes focusing on potential rather than limitations, even when facing challenges.

The Howard family balances their driven pursuits with a “work hard, play hard” mentality, enjoying activities like dirt biking and boating in their free time.

Howard’s work is particularly relevant as NASA progresses with the Artemis program, aiming to return humans to the Moon and establish the first lunar outpost. The entire family shares a passion for space exploration, evidenced by their enthusiastic viewing of the Artemis II mission launch, with his daughter experiencing the launch's power firsthand.

As Howard's contributions support both NASA and commercial partners conducting propulsion testing at Stennis, the family eagerly anticipates future missions like Artemis III and IV. His transition to civil servant status allows him a direct role in NASA's efforts to maintain American leadership in space and inspire future generations of engineers, like his son.

For more information about NASA’s Stennis Space Center, visit: www.nasa.gov/stennis