One day at NASA can sometimes teach more than months of discussions about innovation. Today, I had the privilege of attending the NASA Procurement Leadership – Small Business in Space event at Kennedy Space Center. My sincere thanks to Bradley Niese, Marvin L. Horne (Deputy Assistant Administrator), Edwin Martinez (Acting Director, KSC Office of Procurement), and Charles T. Williams (Chief of Staff, NASA Office of Small Business Programs) for sharing their vision, their experience and, above all, their passion. Several moments during the day particularly resonated with me. Before the conference even began, the American National Anthem was played throughout the building. Everyone stopped. Everyone stood still. Hands were placed over hearts. It was a simple moment, yet an incredibly powerful one. It reminded me that great organizations are built on something larger than technology alone. They are built on a shared mission, shared values and a genuine sense of belonging. Another message struck me throughout every presentation. At NASA, every person matters.
Whether you are a technician, an engineer, a project manager, an administrator or a senior executive, every role contributes to the mission.
Titles are respected, but contribution is what truly defines success.
That humility and respect for every individual is something I deeply admire.
Perhaps the most inspiring message of the day was NASA’s vision of innovation is not automatically considered a risk. Is : An opportunity to solve problems.An opportunity to strengthen American leadership.
An opportunity to create value. NASA’s Small Business Program goes far beyond procurement. Its purpose is to help innovative companies understand the process, improve their proposals, strengthen their capabilities and become competitive long before a contract is awarded.