I have been an engineer at NASA (JSC) for twenty years. I have worked Shuttle (Payload Ops), NASA Mir (continuous rotation to Russia supporting NASA astronaut and payloads on-board Mir for three years), and now write procedures to build and operate the ISS. Most recently the procedures are mod kits which retro fit the station and its modules for newly desired capabilities.
My analytical/geek side often fights to coexist with my artistic side. An artist all my life, I write lyrics and poetry, create art by recycling old items (crosses, birdhouses, furniture), do graphic design on the side as well and also love construction and building things... big things, like massive decks! That engineering comes back into play with my construction projects and while building custom cabinets and renovating my kitchen or knocking a hole in the wall under the stairs for a wine cellar... best of both worlds?
Maybe not... The fight between my interests results in a great conversation but I have never been able to be an expert on any one thing - just have too many interests! Don't get me wrong.... with my experience at NASA, I am viewed as the expert on our team - I just don't see myself that way because I know how much more there is to know! If we could not continue to learn and grow on a daily basis, what would be the point?
I also love travel, adventure and being active. I am a cyclist, boot camper, beginning climber, and an expert skiier. In fact, I would rather be outside right now!
I maintain a countless set of web pages on all sorts of different topics including space, collecting manned space memorabilia, the old Southwest Conference, and my place in northeast Oklahoma.
However - with all my interests, my passion has always been space.
