FROM SERVICE TO SERVICE
A Journey of Purpose, Growth, and Impact Through Service to NASA
From Service to Service: A Journey of Purpose, Growth, and Impact
Being featured in Influential Magazine in October 2025 was both humbling and inspiring. It provided an opportunity to reflect on a journey that began with nonprofit work, volunteer service, and overcoming the challenges that often accompany a low-income lifestyle. Looking back, I can see how every experience, every obstacle, and every opportunity to serve prepared me for where I am today.
Service has always been the foundation of my career. Before entering the federal contracting space, I dedicated much of my time to nonprofit organizations and volunteer initiatives focused on helping others. Those experiences taught me that meaningful impact is not measured by job titles or income levels, but by the difference we make in the lives of those around us.
That commitment to service eventually led me to an opportunity that changed my life. Through InspiriTec, Inc., I was given the privilege of supporting the Defense Manpower Data Center (DMDC) as a Tier 1 Customer Service Representative on a Department of Defense contract. This role allowed me to directly assist veterans, active-duty service members, retirees, and their families by helping them navigate critical systems, resolve account access concerns, troubleshoot technical issues, document cases, and connect them with the resources they needed.
One of the most rewarding aspects of this position was knowing that every interaction had the potential to make life a little easier for someone who had served our nation, or for a family member supporting them. As a military spouse and someone blessed to have many veterans in my family, this mission became deeply personal. I understand firsthand the sacrifices military families make, the challenges they face, and the importance of ensuring they receive timely and effective support. Being able to contribute to that mission was an honor I never took lightly.
This opportunity also provided me with the ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance, a responsibility that reinforced the importance of professionalism, integrity, and trust in every aspect of my work. Working within a secure federal environment broadened my understanding of government operations and gave me valuable experience supporting mission-critical services.
Throughout my time on the DMDC contract, I learned far more than technical procedures and customer service skills. I gained a deeper appreciation for teamwork, accountability, problem-solving, and the importance of serving others with empathy and respect. Every day presented new opportunities to learn, grow, and contribute to a mission larger than myself.
InspiriTec, Inc.
I am incredibly grateful to have been part of InspiriTec, Inc., an organization whose mission aligns so closely with my personal values. As an AbilityOne program participant, InspiriTec creates meaningful employment opportunities for people with disabilities, veterans, and other individuals seeking pathways to sustainable careers. The organization demonstrates every day that talent, dedication, and determination matter more than limitations.
What makes InspiriTec truly special is its commitment to empowering employees to succeed within their own circumstances. The organization's culture recognizes that individuals thrive when given flexibility, support, and opportunities for growth. Because of that support, I have been able to continue pursuing my Bachelor of Science in Computer Science while advancing professionally. Having an employer that values both career development and educational achievement has been an incredible blessing and has allowed me to continue investing in my future.
The People Who Made the Greatest Impact
While I am grateful for the professional opportunities I have received, it is the people at InspiriTec who have made the greatest impact on my life. I have been fortunate to work under the leadership of John Connolly, Chief Executive Officer, whose vision has helped shape an organization dedicated to empowering individuals through meaningful employment and technology services. His commitment to creating opportunities for people from all walks of life has changed countless lives, including my own.
I am equally grateful for Michele Smith and the Human Resources and Case Management teams. Michele exemplifies what compassionate leadership should look like. She has an extraordinary ability to connect with employees on a personal level, listen with genuine empathy, and remind people that they matter. In a workplace environment where it can be easy to focus solely on performance and productivity, Michele consistently demonstrates that people come first. Her leadership has fostered a culture of respect, support, and encouragement that extends throughout the organization.
I also owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to Allison in Case Management. During some of the most difficult seasons of my life, Allison went above and beyond to ensure I felt supported, heard, and valued. Her kindness and dedication far exceeded what anyone could reasonably expect from their role. She consistently offered guidance, encouragement, and practical support during moments when I needed it most. Her compassion is a reflection of the heart of InspiriTec and its mission.
Resilience Is Not About Never Falling
This year brought one of the greatest challenges I have ever faced. On Easter Sunday, I lost my mother after her courageous battle with cancer. Losing a parent leaves a void that words cannot adequately describe. The grief was overwhelming, and there were days when simply moving forward felt impossible. Yet during that difficult time, my InspiriTec family surrounded me with compassion, understanding, and unwavering support.
One person who made an especially profound difference was Natalie, a Team Lead who became an invaluable mentor and source of strength. Natalie consistently encouraged me to keep moving forward, even during moments when I struggled to see my own path ahead. Her patience, guidance, and belief in my potential helped me persevere through one of the darkest chapters of my life. She reminded me that resilience is not about never falling—it is about finding the courage to rise again.
The support I received from Michele, Allison, Natalie, and so many others within the organization transformed what could have been an isolating experience into one marked by hope, connection, and healing. They demonstrated that true leadership is not measured solely by business outcomes but by the willingness to uplift others during their most vulnerable moments. Their compassion is something I will carry with me for the rest of my life.
Here's to NASA
Today, I find myself in an exciting transition period as I prepare for the next chapter of my career. I am honored to be transitioning to a role supporting NASA—the National Aeronautics and Space Administration—the agency responsible for America’s civilian space program, aeronautics research, scientific discovery, and technological innovation.
The opportunity to work under Kathy Linn alongside a team of like-minded professionals operating the NASA Enterprise Service Desk twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, three hundred sixty-five days a year represents an exciting new challenge. While I am currently in the transition process and have not yet begun actively working in this new role, I am eager to contribute to a mission that continues to push the boundaries of exploration, innovation, and human achievement.
As I reflect on my journey—from nonprofit work and volunteer service to supporting military communities through the Department of Defense, and now preparing to contribute to NASA’s mission—I am reminded that growth often begins with simply saying yes to opportunities to serve. Every chapter has taught me valuable lessons, introduced me to remarkable people, and reinforced the belief that purpose-driven work can transform lives.
I remain committed to continuous learning, service, and professional growth. As I continue pursuing my degree in Computer Science and preparing for this next opportunity, I am grateful for the mentors, leaders, colleagues, family members, and friends who have supported me along the way.
My story is proof that where you start does not determine where you can go. Through faith, perseverance, education, and a commitment to serving others, doors can open that once seemed impossible to imagine. From nonprofit volunteer work to supporting our nation’s military community, earning a security clearance, and preparing to support the mission of NASA, every step has been guided by a desire to make a difference.
Above all, I have learned that success is never achieved alone. It is built through the encouragement of mentors, the support of family, the compassion of colleagues, and the grace of those who believe in us during our most difficult moments. For that, I will always be grateful.
Eight months ago, I never thought I would be here.
“Shoot for the moon. Even if you miss, you’ll land among the stars.” — Norman Vincent Peale
Here’s to NASA.
