ICYMI! Meet Moogega. Her role as the Planetary Protection Lead for Mars 2020 sounds like something straight out of a science fiction movie. In reality, it is all science and no fiction. She ensures the Mars 2020 Rover is biologically clean before it leaves Earth. “If we do find signs of ancient life on Mars, we want to make sure it didn’t hitch a ride on our rover and it’s a true positive signal,” she explains. Her favorite thing about the Lab is that each new day comes with a question, “….I never get tired of my job, and it constantly evolves with the state of our scientific understanding.” This enthusiasm for her work echoes her inspiration from President Barack Obama, Trevor Noah, and Amanda Seales as outspoken trailblazers who are examples of empowerment and “… charting your own course despite the adversity that is awaiting you in your journey.” Her advice to others pursuing careers in STEM is, “…Uphold your scientific integrity, because the facts will set you free.” #BlackHistoryMonth

Spitzer's Final Voyage Marks Career Start for NASA-JPL Intern - Meet JPL Interns | NASA/JPL Edu

Meet Brandon, Cybersecurity Engineer. Brandon's passion for computer science led him to work with universities, the military, and other NASA centers before joining JPL fulltime in 2017. Now, he focuses on keeping JPL systems and employees safe from cybersecurity threats. His favorite thing about JPL is that everyone is as passionate as he is about their work which creates an interesting and collaborative environment. The challenges and evolving nature of cybersecurity keep him on his toes and driven to learn more. Inspired by Muhammad Ali, Brandon follows his example by standing up for his beliefs and striving to be the best in his field. His advice to others is, "Believe in yourself. Do not underestimate yourself." #BlackHistoryMonth

Growing up in Pasadena, Kirstie would pass by JPL frequently and say, “I’m going to work there someday!” After earning her bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Tennessee State University and impressing the Human Resources leadership at a Los Angeles hospital, Kirstie pursued her dream and joined JPL over three years ago. She remembers what it’s like to be a job seeker and brings that empathy to her work helping candidates. Her favorite thing about JPL is how the Lab influences other space agencies and inspires excitement about space exploration with the public. As the president of the Black Excellence Strategic Team (B.E.S.T.), Kirstie’s goal is to help support an environment for Black employees to be their genuine selves and share the JPL experience, encouraging others to keep pushing forward and making history. Kirstie is most inspired by James Baldwin, “His ability to articulate the African American experience is spot on, poetic and necessary.” #BlackHistoryMonth

We were excited to welcome the Loyola Village African Drum and Dance Ensemble (LADDE) to the Lab for #BlackHistoryMonth! The performance was organized by our employee resource group, B.E.S.T. (Black Excellence Strategic Team).

Intern Helps Mars Rover Drivers Make All the Right Moves - Meet JPL Interns | NASA/JPL Edu

Meet Joseph, Spitzer Mission Project Manager. Joseph’s road to discovery began in childhood, fueled by curiosity behind how devices worked, or sometimes, didn’t. During his time at JPL, Joseph has enjoyed working with creative people to resolve, create and innovate mission operations – most recently for the successfully completed Spitzer Mission. His enthusiasm for discovery has helped expand our understanding of how the universe works. Joseph is a member of JPL’s Black Excellence Strategic Team (B.E.S.T) Employee Resource Group and is inspired by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. because his speeches instill hope that everything is achievable by everyone. His advice for future discoverers like himself: get involved in special activities that will develop your passion and vision. #BlackHistoryMonth

We're excited to kick off #BlackHistoryMonth by recognizing our JPL employee resource group, Black Excellence Strategic Team (B.E.S.T.). B.E.S.T. supports employees and JPL's ongoing commitment to nurturing an inclusive and diverse culture at the Lab.

One way to work with us is to vote on your favorite name for the #Mars2020 rover! Cast your vote soon—the public poll closes on Jan. 26: http://glassdoor.com/slink.htm?key=vM7Nl

Leadership from JPL’s employee resource group, Black Excellence Strategic Team (B.E.S.T.), celebrated Martin Luther King Jr. Day at the California African American Museum. #MLKDay #LifeatJPL