Photo credit: www.nasa.gov

Inside the Work of NASA Engineer Noosha Haghani

Noosha Haghani, a dedicated engineer at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, plays a vital role in the agency’s missions through her problem-solving prowess and decision-making skills. Currently serving as the Deputy Mission Systems Engineer for the Plankton Aerosol Clouds and Ecosystem (PACE) mission, she has been an integral part of this project from its inception.

Name: Noosha Haghani
Title: PACE Deputy Mission Systems Engineer
Formal Job Classification: Electrical Engineer
Organization: Engineering and Technology Directorate, Mission Systems Engineering Branch (Code 599)

Engineering Background and Motivation

Haghani’s journey into engineering was a natural choice, influenced by her affinity for mathematics and science from a young age. With both parents working in engineering, she frequently engaged in creative building projects, often using Legos, which laid a strong foundation for her future career. She holds a BS in Electrical Engineering and a master’s degree in Reliability Engineering from the University of Maryland, College Park, and was on the verge of completing her Ph.D. before family responsibilities shifted her focus.

Path to Goddard

Haghani first joined NASA as an intern during her college years. After a stint in the industry post-graduation, she returned to Goddard in 2002, mesmerized by the unique challenges and groundbreaking work the center undertakes. Her connection to Goddard runs deep; she is a second-generation employee, following in her mother’s footsteps, who also works at the center as a software engineer.

Hands-on Experience and System Understanding

With extensive involvement in the PACE project, Haghani directed the development of an avionics system known as MUSTANG, which is crucial to the mission’s framework. This role has provided her insights into the intricacies of the spacecraft’s design and functionality. Her strong grasp of the decision-making processes throughout the project’s lifecycle has enabled her to appreciate the complexity and rationale behind the systems built.

Problem-Solving Methodology

Haghani describes problems as initial signs of failure that require a systematic approach to resolve. She explains that effective problem-solving involves a thorough investigation of symptoms, leading to potential root causes while recognizing the need for further testing and evidence collection. Her experience allows for a structured dissection of the complex systems involved in the PACE mission.

Leadership in Technical Collaboration

As a leader within a large technical team, Haghani emphasizes the importance of collaborative problem-solving. She often delegates tasks based on individuals’ roles and facilitates discussions to brainstorm solutions to present challenges. Her role as a technical authority entails coordinating with various subsystem leads to establish a comprehensive investigation plan involving the Integration and Test team.

Influencing Without Direct Authority

Leading individuals outside her direct chain of command requires a unique approach. Haghani fosters influence through collaboration and respect, ensuring that her experience and understanding of the project guide the team towards effective solutions. This collaborative environment is essential for navigating the complexities involved in the mission’s development.

Building Consensus Among Teams

Consensus is vital in Haghani’s leadership strategy. She values the contributions of each team member and aims to create an atmosphere of mutual respect and open communication. Decisions on the project are made collectively, with input from subject matter experts, ensuring that the final direction is agreed upon by all, thereby enhancing the commitment to the decisions made.

Balancing Perfectionism and Practicality

Haghani recognizes the prevalence of perfectionism in engineering but advocates for a balance between high standards and practical project timelines. She explains that while striving for the ideal design is commendable, it is essential to acknowledge when a project is ready to progress, especially when considering budget and schedule constraints.

The Importance of Decision-Making

A key aspect of her role involves assessing risks and making timely decisions. Haghani believes that indecision can hinder project momentum, so she works diligently to provide clear direction to her team. Her focus on risk assessment helps ensure that activities are aligned with project goals and timelines.

Mentorship and Inspiration

As an informal mentor, Haghani encourages perseverance among her colleagues, reminding them that challenges will eventually resolve. She derives inspiration from her team, whose dedication and talent motivate her to strive for continuous improvement in her own work.

Personal Interests

In her personal life, Haghani enjoys fitness activities, supporting her son’s sports endeavors, and traveling to immerse herself in different cultures. These interests provide a refreshing contrast to her intense professional life at NASA.

Conversations With Goddard is a project aimed at highlighting the experiences and insights of the diverse workforce at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, showcasing their innovation and dedication to advancing space exploration. Published regularly since May 2011, the series presents an inside look at the lives of those contributing to extraordinary missions.

Source
www.nasa.gov