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As a radio frequency wireless engineer in NASA\u2019s Johnson Space Center Avionic Systems Division in Houston, Melissa Moreno makes an impact in space exploration while proudly sharing her cultural heritage in the NASA community.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Moreno works in the Electronic Systems Test Laboratory, developing communication systems critical to Gateway, NASA\u2019s first lunar-orbiting space station. But her success stretches far beyond the lab.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n
In addition to her technical work, Moreno co-founded Johnson\u2019s Hispanic Employee Resource Group\u2019s mariachi ensemble, Mariachi Celestial. She performs as a violinist and vocalist at employee events and community engagements.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n
\u201cMariachi is a large part of my culture and identity, and I enjoy sharing it,\u201d said Moreno.<\/p>\n
Originally from New Mexico, Moreno earned her master\u2019s degree in electrical engineering from New Mexico State University\u2014a milestone she considers her greatest achievement. \u201cI am the only one in my family that has graduated with a master\u2019s in engineering,\u201d she said.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n
Working on Gateway has taken Moreno to various NASA facilities, where she collaborates with engineers across the country to develop the lunar outpost. She also supports communication testing for the International Space Station as needed. \u201cThis has been an invaluable experience for me,\u201d said Moreno.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n
Her career has not come without challenges. As a young Hispanic woman in engineering, Moreno has faced self-doubt and the pressure of perfectionism. \u201cI can be very hard on myself,\u201d she said. \u201cWhile I\u2019ve made progress, I\u2019m still working on overcoming these challenges by thinking positively, believing in myself, and doing my absolute best.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\n
One key lesson she has learned along the way is the importance of adaptability. \u201cThere are times when things don\u2019t go as planned, and adapting to such situations is important for continued success,\u201d she said.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Moreno is also a strong advocate for NASA\u2019s diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. \u201cNASA should continue to highlight stories that showcase diversity in the workplace because they can inspire current and future underrepresented groups at NASA,\u201d she said.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n
Looking ahead, Moreno is excited about NASA\u2019s plans to land the first woman and first person of color on the Moon, Gateway\u2019s orbit around the Moon, and the eventual human landing on Mars.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n
\u201cI hope to pass on dedication and passion for the Artemis campaign,\u201d she said.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/div>\n