Discover the Women of NASA Behind the World’s Most Expansive Flying Laboratory
Launching its scientific odyssey in 1987, NASA’s DC-8 aircraft reigns as the preeminent airborne laboratory worldwide. Over its distinguished service, it has traversed the skies above diverse locales including Antarctica, Greenland, and Thailand. The DC-8, along with its counterparts, has empowered scientists to unravel the mysteries of Earth’s ecosystems, a feat unique to NASA’s Airborne Science initiative. After 37 illustrious years, the DC-8 will gracefully transition to Idaho State University, where it will nurture the intellects of future generations.
As the DC-8 approaches this transformative milestone, we spotlight the indomitable women who have steered the aircraft and its program to success.
Kirsten Boogaard, Nicki Reid, Carrie Worth, Erin Waggoner, and Wendy Bereda, hailing from NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center in Edwards, California, are the architects of a legacy, shaping paths for generations to come.
Kirsten Boogaard: Orchestrator Extraordinaire
In her multifaceted role as deputy project manager, mission manager, and assistant mission director, Kirsten Boogaard embodies versatility for the DC-8 program. Since assuming the mantle of deputy project manager in 2020, she has spearheaded project planning, integration, and resource management. Boogaard stands among the select few women qualified to helm the role of mission director for this airborne laboratory.
“I derive immense pride from my professional achievements,” Boogaard reflects. “Balancing a full-time career while nurturing a family is a testament to my dedication.”
Nickelle Reid: Guardian of Airborne Ventures
As the operations engineer, Nicki Reid is entrusted with ensuring the DC-8’s airworthiness. She scrutinizes the integration of scientific instruments to uphold aircraft safety. Simultaneously, she assumes the pivotal role of mission director, orchestrating seamless communication between cabin and cockpit crews.
“Filtering through the cacophony of conversations demands unwavering focus,” Reid asserts. “Efficient communication is the linchpin of our scientific endeavors.”
Carrie Worth: A Trailblazer Soaring the Skies
Carrie Worth’s trajectory as a pilot traces back to her awe-inspiring childhood encounter with aeronautical feats. Following a distinguished 21-year tenure in the U.S. Air Force and subsequent service as a 747 pilot, Worth now navigates the skies as a NASA DC-8 pilot. Amidst a predominantly male domain, Worth finds solace in NASA’s supportive ethos.
“The camaraderie among my male peers is invaluable,” Worth remarks. “While strides have been made, there remains a collective obligation to foster inclusivity in aviation.”
Erin Waggoner: Championing Aeronautical Frontiers
Joining NASA Armstrong in 2011 to champion sonic boom research, Erin Waggoner now leads the Research Aerodynamics and Propulsion Branch as the branch chief. Grateful for the mentorship that has shaped her journey, Waggoner extols the collaborative ethos prevalent within NASA.
“My tenure with the DC-8 project underscored the significance of teamwork,” Waggoner reflects. “Empowering young women in aerospace is a cause close to my heart.”
Wendy Bereda: Guardian of Operational Excellence
Wendy Bereda’s stewardship of the DC-8 spans over two decades, as she transitioned from a logistics clerk to her current role as site supervisor at NASA Armstrong. Her unwavering commitment to operational excellence has earned her accolades, epitomized by her dedication to sustaining the DC-8’s mission readiness.
“Our devotion to the DC-8 is unwavering,” Bereda affirms. “It’s not merely a job but a testament to our collective passion for aerospace innovation.”
The expertise exemplified by these trailblazing women enriches NASA’s legacy of exploration and propels the DC-8 program towards new horizons of discovery.