Nancy Hall

Who I am ...

I work in Ground-Based Facilities in the Exploration Systems Division. In 1989 I earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Space Sciences from the Florida Institute of Technology, and in May 2001 I completed a Master's of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering with an emphasis on Fluid Mechanics from the University of Toledo.

Where I came from ...

I grew up and attended school in Brooklyn, New York, where I received A's and B's, except for one D in science in fourth grade. I thought science was boring at the time. My interest in science changed thanks to my sixth grade science teacher Ms. Fusco at Our Lady of Refuge School. She made learning science fun. We completed science experiments in class and at home. And Ms. Fusco was always willing to answer our science questions. Her class made me want to be a scientist, and one of her science experiments, to draw the phases of the moon as seen from our homes over a 30-day period, piqued my interest in astronomy. In high school I took honors math and science classes, as well as advanced placement physics and chemistry. I was also interested in computers, taught myself BASIC, and took an Introduction to Pascal class in high school.

When I attended Florida Institute of Technology, I began a major in computer engineering, but switched to space sciences after my first quarter. Although the concentrations were astronomy and physics, I also took classes in electrical, ocean, and mechanical engineering and computer sciences. This degree reinforced my initial interest in studying astronomy, and it gave me background in several other branches of engineering. After graduation, I sought a job in the aerospace field--hoping to eventually work for NASA. I planned to work toward a master's degree to expand my knowledge base in my specific aerospace work area.

How I got to NASA ...

After graduation, I was surprised to receive an offer from the NASA Glenn Research Center. In 1990 I began as a technical manager of the "Space Station Freedom" power management and distribution system hardware, coordinating technical contractor proposal evaluation, and participating in negotiations. This job involved much paperwork, but I took the opportunity to learn all I could about the intricate workings of the Space Station and how the various NASA centers were involved in the project. After the Space Station reorganization in 1994, I transferred to the Fluid Physics Branch--the most important move I ever made.

My work here at NASA ...

In the Fluid Physics Branch, we study the behavior of fluids (liquids) in a microgravity environment. Research grants are awarded to principal investigators (PIs) for either ground-based research or flight-definition experiments. My role is that of technical monitor in ground-based research. I help the PI with the use of NASA facilities, such as the drop tower or the reduced gravity airplane, and check their progress annually. For the flight-definition experiments, I serve as a project scientist liaison between the PI and the engineering team. So a good understanding of the science involved in the experiment and a good engineering background are needed. The flight definition experiments, after sufficient progress and reviews, eventually fly on the Space Shuttle, sounding rocket, or International Space Station.

What else I do ...

My husband and I are both active amateur radio operators. I also read science fiction, build model airplanes and science fiction models, collect stamps, play the piano, and collect trading and customizable card games (i.e., Magic, Star Trek, Babylon 5). My daughter is the joy of my life. I never knew motherhood could be so much fun, even while juggling work, school, and a family. I also enjoy judging science fairs and visiting schools during career day or National Engineers' week and talking about what I do.

My advice to you ...

The best advice I can give is for you to study hard in school and pursue your interests. Although I started out in computer engineering, it wasn't what I wanted but what everyone thought was best for me. However, I made the decision to switch majors and pursue a degree in my area of interest. Was it a risk? Yes, but I am glad I switched. In space sciences, I was able to study astronomy (which I still love), and I also studied other engineering and science areas, which helped me get where I am today.

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