How Others Inspired Me to Lead
From aerospace leadership to mentoring the next generation of administrative professionals at NASA.
I began my career with a major aerospace company in 2005 and immediately became part of a mission-focused team. From the start, colleagues recognized my potential and encouraged me to pursue leadership opportunities. My journey began through volunteer work for charitable causes, which helped me develop essential leadership skills.
One of my first initiatives was coordinating a Dress for Success suit drive for a local organization. I partnered with boutiques to host a professional fashion show, and together we collected business attire for women entering the workforce. The organization’s mission is to create lasting change by equipping thousands of Houston-area women each year with the resources needed to achieve long-term employment and success—ultimately strengthening our community with skilled leaders.
The success of that effort opened the door to my next opportunity: joining the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP), a global nonprofit dedicated to advancing the administrative profession. Through IAAP, I gained access to relevant training, essential resources, and numerous volunteer roles—each one building my leadership experience through collaboration, knowledge sharing, and certification.
As my professional network expanded across the U.S., I sought additional development opportunities. I earned Microsoft Office Specialist certification and later completed Lean Six Sigma Green Belt training, further enhancing my ability to lead and drive process improvements.
Working at NASA’s Johnson Space Center has provided countless opportunities for growth. Inspired by those who guided me, I’ve made it my mission to give back to the administrative profession. For the past decade, I’ve mentored and supported fellow administrative professionals in developing their skills. Currently, I lead a study group of approximately 20 admins, where we focus on emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and critical skills such as mastering crucial conversations.
Leadership is not a destination—it’s a journey shaped by those who invest in us. I am grateful for the mentors and experiences that have empowered me to lead and, in turn, help others succeed.
Lorna DeArmond
Lead Administrative Specialist
Mission Control Center
Johnson Space Center – Houston
