Jennifer Scott Williams: Leading the next giant leap in space exploration and championing STEM advancement

Jennifer Scott Williams embodies leadership, innovation and passion for life. Her career is a testament to her unwavering passion and versatility, serving in a variety of roles and contributing greatly to NASA’s milestones and advancements. During her 23 years at NASA, she brought together engineering, business, science communication and leadership all in one.

Currently working in the Office of the Director, Williams serves as assistant for technical integration to NASA Johnson Space Center Director Vanessa Wyche, supporting meetings such as the International Space Station and Commercial Crew Program readiness reviews, as well as coordinating skip-level meetings.Challenge | Unity | ExplorationOversee senior staff meetings to keep leadership informed of activities occurring across the Center.

She also serves in the International Space Station Program’s Research Integration Office, ensuring space station crew members have the tools they need to complete their research.

“As with many laboratories where astronauts conduct research, it is crucial to understand the engineering elements of the facilities we use on board,” Williams said. “It’s also important to understand the science,” she added. “Conducting the science on board and communicating the creative insights and results gained from the experiments conducted adds meaning to our work. Being a good communicator is crucial, and creativity is what makes that message real and meaningful to the public.”

Her career also includes groundbreaking work on the Boeing Starliner spacecraft, where she served as the Instrumentation and Communications Officer for the Boeing Mission Operations Team. Her efforts established the operational foundation that would shape future space missions. Williams was instrumental in developing the spacecraft’s communications systems, understanding its operation, creating simulations, coding, understanding the computer systems, and addressing all fundamental aspects required for a spacecraft.

Beyond her technical contributions, Williams is passionate about inspiring the next generation of explorers and manages research and education projects at underrepresented colleges and universities, encouraging students of color to pursue STEM fields.

She led a team that worked with students, teachers and educational institutions through teacher preparation programs. Williams says working in the STEM Engagement Office was a new and life-changing experience for her. “I rediscovered my passion for students and education,” she says. “I love being able to help interns get acclimated to the NASA environment and help people of color apply for NASA jobs. All perspectives are needed to accomplish our mission.”

Williams earned her bachelor’s degree in mathematics and electrical engineering from Spelman College and Georgia Institute of Technology. She then earned her master’s degree in electrical engineering from the University of Houston. She is a member of the Spelman College National Alumni Association and is a life member of the National Society of Black Engineers.

Williams is an advocate for young people pursuing STEM-related careers. Her advice is, “Go for it. We’re here to stay,” adding, “I think it’s great that we don’t shy away from our differences but embrace them, because having people with different backgrounds, personalities, insights and perspectives is what’s going to help us get back to the moon.”

“The Artemis generation needs creative minds,” she said. “We need artists, scientists, engineers, technologists, doctors, lawyers, financial experts. This next generation needs to be open-minded thinkers. They need to be willing to do things that have never been done before and take risks so they can set foot on the moon and Mars.”

Williams also plays a key role in the Dare | Unite | Explore initiative, working with senior leadership to ensure employees have professional mobility and have the training and resources for new opportunities. “We want to encourage our employees to try new things, learn and grow in different organizations,” she says. “Dare | Unite | Explore ensures that Johnson & Johnson employees are fully supported in their growth and development efforts and that our facilities and processes support us and align with future initiatives.”

“I never thought I’d work for NASA, but when I came for my interview, they took me on a shuttle simulator and I was hooked,” she says. “I’ve been encouraging kids to pursue STEM careers my whole life, and this job has been so beneficial for me. The people I’ve met here are just amazing. It made me want to continue working here.”