Her Story
About Eva
Eva Martinez is a dedicated business operations professional at NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), where she supports the Mission Design and Navigation Department and contributes to the business functions that enable some of the world's most ambitious space exploration initiatives. Throughout her career at JPL, she has demonstrated remarkable adaptability, progressing from contractor roles in catering and hospitality to personnel security, visitor relations, and ultimately business operations. Her experience spans administrative support, customer service, security coordination, and organizational operations, reflecting a strong commitment to excellence and continuous professional growth. She holds an Associate of Arts in Business Fundamentals from the University of Phoenix and is a member of both the National Society of Collegiate Scholars and the National Society of Leadership and Success. Before joining the business side of JPL, Eva built a diverse professional background in healthcare, home care services, and protective services. Her experience as a pediatric medical assistant and healthcare specialist strengthened her compassion, organizational abilities, and dedication to serving others. At JPL, she earned recognition for her outstanding contributions, including the Voyager Award for exceptional customer service and leadership in personnel security and VIP operations, as well as a Team Award for supporting a successful Astrophysics Department initiative. Her ability to combine operational efficiency with a people-first approach has made her a trusted contributor across multiple departments within the organization. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Eva is deeply committed to service, leadership, and empowering others. She is an active member of JPL's Advisory Council for Women, advocating for the advancement and support of women in the workplace. Outside of her career, she leads a women's ministry, facilitates Bible studies, manages a clothing ministry, and volunteers with youth-focused nonprofit organizations, including Camp Agape and The A21 Campaign, where she raises awareness about human trafficking. Guided by the values of honesty, integrity, perseverance, and respect, Eva believes success is built through hard work, endurance, and maintaining a positive mindset. She encourages young women to persevere through challenges, seek mentorship, and confidently create opportunities for themselves while remaining true to their values.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Eva
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to hard work, perseverance, and resilience. I believe in never giving up, staying focused on my goals, and always striving to grow and improve.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to treat everyone with respect, regardless of their title or position. Early in my career, I worked VIP check-in while also helping onboard janitorial staff, and that experience taught me that respect is earned by giving it freely. When you treat people with kindness and dignity, they are far more likely to respect you in return.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to keep going, even when it gets hard. Find a mentor who can offer guidance, share knowledge, and support your growth. Most importantly, maintain a positive mindset, work hard, and present yourself with confidence—those qualities will help create opportunities throughout your career.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is navigating the economy and its impact on opportunities. At the same time, I believe opportunities are created by maintaining a positive mindset, having a strong work ethic, and presenting yourself with confidence. How you carry yourself and communicate your value can open doors, even in challenging times.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that matter most to me are honesty, integrity, and treating everyone with respect, regardless of their title or position. I believe these principles build trust, strengthen relationships, and guide both my personal and professional life.
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