Lorna DeArmond
Lorna D. is an accomplished administrative professional with over 25 years of experience supporting NASA operations, mission control, and program management. Currently serving as the Lead Administrative Specialist for KBR’s Mission Systems Operations Contract (MSOC) at the Johnson Space Center, she leads an administrative team, implements process improvements, and coordinates complex domestic and international travel. Lorna is Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certified and a Microsoft Office Specialist, bringing both technical expertise and strategic insight to her role in aerospace program management. Her career began in 1996 as a Senior Administrative Coordinator with SpaceHab/Johnson Engineering, where she managed logistics, personnel onboarding, and international travel coordination. She then supported United Space Alliance for 14 years, providing essential administrative support to flight controllers, crew trainers, and program management teams in the Extra Vehicular Activities Division. Throughout her career, Lorna has been instrumental in developing SharePoint sites, helping to manage morale budgets, and executing high-profile events, consistently improving administrative workflows and ensuring mission success. Lorna’s dedication and professionalism have been recognized through numerous awards, including the prestigious Colleen Barrett Award for Administrative Excellence in 2023 and multiple MSOC Excellence Awards. Beyond her professional work, she has served in leadership roles with the International Association of Administrative Professionals, including Vice President and Treasurer of the Texas-Louisiana Division. Celebrating more than 20 years supporting space flight operations, Lorna remains a respected mentor, leader, and advocate for excellence in administrative support.
• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt
• Microsoft Office Specialist
• Certified Administrative Professional
• San Jacinto College- A.A.
• Colleen Barrett Award for Administrative Excellence
• MSOC Excellence Award
• IMOC II Excellence Award
• International Mission Operations Award of Excellence
• IMOC II Award of Excellence
• Quest Performance for Administrative Excellence
• Presidents Award
• International Association of Administrative Professionals
• International Association of Administrative Professionals
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to having a strong foundation of faith and having a desire to do my very best, which has guided and supported me throughout my career.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to keep developing my skills, never stop learning, and never stop reaching for the stars.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to join professional groups and organizations to build your network, collaborate with professionals in your field, and get certified in key skills.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges—and opportunities—in my field right now is maintaining clear and effective communication across all departments. It's really important to keep up with new communication tools.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are honesty, trust, and loyalty. I cherish my family and friends, enjoy crafting and antiquing, collecting space memorabilia, and love designing and creating designer Christmas trees—passions that reflect my lifelong connection to creativity and my roots in the aerospace community.