Women in Astronomy - Principal Technologist at STScI

1. Tell us about yourself.

In May 1982? I joined STScI as a typist in the Publications Department.? We used the NBI Word Processing? Systems to produce science papers, NASA required documents, presentations and more.? Within a few years, we upgraded from stand-alone Word-Processing desktop systems to Integrated NBI Servers allowing us to share files without walking the 8” diskettes around to each other.? Being a part of this upgrade allowed me to learn much about the other computer systems here at STScI sending me on a path into the Computer Support world. I was promoted to a System Administrator, and moved into the Business Division, helping support the computing needs of our Accounting, Procurement, Facilities and Property groups.?

?Continuing to support Business, as a Senior Technologist, working with teams from other groups, we made it through Y2K, Financial system upgrades,? Property System conversions, Payroll and HR system changeovers and much more.? I have had the honor of working with many new employees, interns, consultants and people from other organizations, always sharing and gaining knowledge.

?In the merger of all computer related positions into one IT Support Group, I moved into a slightly different role where I not only supported Business, but, learned how to support Windows, Macs, and many different software packages used across the Institute. I am now a Principal Technologist in the IT Support Division, working with many other very knowledgeable people here at STScI, learning or sharing something new every day!

?2. What led you into astronomy??

When I applied at STScI, it was a temporary position for a "typist."? Little did I know, my world was about to takes some serious leaps.? The papers I typed were for scientists here at Space Telescope that came from around the world to Baltimore.? Working on these papers taught me (as one who had no idea of the cosmos) that I could learn great things by reading, listening and asking questions. My knowledge and amazement of what astronomy is grew leaps and bounds! I had no idea how much my personal universe would expand, with the Hubble launch, the servicing missions, and then the James Webb launch - the discoveries have been beautiful and exciting!

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3. Why are you so passionate about your work at STScI??

In 1982, STScI was a small presence on the campus of Johns Hopkins University, located in a few different offices spread across several buildings on campus.? The staff grew quickly, moved into our own building, expanded that building, and have outgrown that location!? I have met a lot of people over the years being a part of the various events and projects. The friendships I've made here is like having one really big extended family.? As a family, we have had our fun, excitement, ups & downs, and surprises. Through it all, we continue to work as a team, rejoice in success, find solutions, and celebrate discoveries.

4. Please share an achievement you are most proud?

I have been a part of teams that worked on Y2K solutions, installing new Financial systems, and moving us from using VT100 monitors to actually having computers on every desk. While I have had many achievements, the one I am most proud of is my daughter who after years of hearing and seeing what mom did is also employed at STScI.? From time to time, she and I actually get to work on the same projects.?

5. What are your hobbies outside of work??

The real world of space melds with my enjoyment of out of this world space. I am a member of several Star Wars Legions.? In these Legions, we are costumed volunteers that participate in things like Hospital visits, Parades, School & Library events while also fund raising for charity and non-profit organizations. In the legions, I am a Reserve Tie Pilot, a member of the 501st Bridge Crew, a Jedi Master, a Jedi Archivist (currently my favorite character), and a Sith Apprentice.

6. What advice would you give to women and young girls coming into this field??

Be yourself, believe in yourself!? There was a saying I heard – if you can dream it, you can do it!? I feel that we are capable of anything we put our minds to, dreams can come true.? Ask questions, do not be afraid to ask for help, have a goal, have a dream.