Memorial Hermann NewStart Surgical and Medical Weight Loss® programs are designed around your specific needs. Patients with type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and infertility have seen successful results from our programs. With our Care Concierge Program, our staff of experienced professionals will help guide you through the entire process and provide the support you need at no additional cost.
memorialhermann.org/newstart
To start a business? Expand your reach? Seize opportunities? Stellar Bankers live for questions like these. We’re local experts with the connections, resources, and the right advice to help your business thrive. Whatever question is
let’s get it answered.
Meet Hector Chavez: Leading Johnson’s Giant Leap into Low Earth Orbit
By Sumer Loggins
As systems integration team lead for NASA’s Commercial Low Earth Orbit Development Program, Hector Chavez helps build a future where NASA and private industry work together to push the boundaries of space exploration.
With the rise of commercial activity in space exploration, Chavez’s team works to ensure that these companies can develop end-to-end systems to compliment NASA’s low Earth orbit operations—from transporting crew and cargo to operating mission centers. His team’s role is to assess how commercial providers are using their systems engineering processes to achieve a robust space economy.
With a background that spans both the National Nuclear Security Administration and NASA, Chavez brings knowledge and insight into working with interdisciplinary teams to create complex, reliable systems. He has collaborated across organizations, contracts, and government to ensure design and operational improvements were carried out safely and reliably.
“Systems integration brings different systems together to deliver capabilities that can’t be achieved alone,” said Chavez. His previous role in NASA’s Safety and Mission Assurance office deepened his expertise in mitigating technical risks in human spaceflight by integrating engineering, health, and safety considerations into the development of space exploration vehicles.
Chavez helps these companies navigate NASA’s design processes without stifling innovation. “Our challenge is to communicate what we’ve identified during technical reviews without prohibiting commercial partners from developing innovative solutions,” he said.
One recent success was the team’s development of two technical standards for docking systems and payload interfaces that will help ensure these systems’ compatibility with existing technologies. This work is essential in allowing commercial low Earth orbit systems to seamlessly integrate with NASA’s heritage designs, a key step toward realizing the agency’s vision for sustained commercial operations in space.
When asked about the biggest opportunities and challenges in his role, Chavez emphasizes the importance of early collaboration. By engaging with “We identify technical issues and lessons learned without dictating design solutions, allowing for innovation while ensuring safety and reliability,” explained Chavez.
Chavez’s approach to leadership and teamwork is rooted in his values of perseverance, integrity, and encouragement.
These principles have helped guide the development of NASA’s Commercial Low Earth Orbit Development Program mission and vision statements, creating an environment that promotes collaboration and creativity.
He is passionate about building a team culture where people feel empowered to take responsible risks and explore solutions.
As NASA prepares for Artemis missions and the next generation of space explorers, Chavez offers advice to the Artemis Generation: “Never do it alone. Build a community and find common ground to share a vision."
Official portrait of Hector Chavez. Credit: NASA/David DeHoyos
Hector Chavez, left, receives an award from former U.S. Secretary of Energy Federico Peña.
Hector Chavez receives a Silver Snoopy Award with his family at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston.
Hector Chavez and the team prepare to lift and install a receiver telescope assembly for the Optical Development System, used to test the alignment and performance of the optical systems for NASA’s Ice, Cloud, and land Elevation Satellite-2 mission, in a clean room at Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland. Credit: NASA Now
Who Knows?
By Pastor Brad Heintz
Ever been in a situation or conversation where someone says, “Who knows?” Usually, they are being rhetorical, aren’t certain, don’t really want an answer, or just don’t know. Whether it is a statement of frustration or genuine question, it does matter who knows. Who knows how to fix your car matters. Who knows how to navigate a complex problem matters. Who knows the future really matters.
When I want to know something that really matters, I go to God and His Word because of his perspective and promises. For example, many people know Jeremiah 29:11. It is quite a very popular verse. “ For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (New International Version)
This verse starts with “For I know the plans I have for you,” which means one obvious thing to whom He was speaking. They didn’t know! They didn’t know God’s plans and they didn’t know the future. This promise from God was given to his people who were under harsh discipline for disobeying him. They were in captivity in a foreign land. Many so-called prophets were saying this situation was going to end soon. The bad news was it was going to last for 70 years! Tough words to hear to say the least. But God wanted to remind them of his
presence and He would never leave them without a promise. The Good News was that God had not forgotten them and that they would prosper with a hope-filled future.
As I said most people can quote Jeremiah 29:11 but not the less popular verses that follow. Yet these are the verses that hold the key to these promises. “ 12 Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. 13 You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. 14 I will be found by you,” declares the Lord, “and will bring you back from captivity.”
As God’s people were waiting for him to deliver them out of their situation, he asked them to actively wait in prayer, seeking first God and doing this with their whole heart. If they did this, then they would find him and his deliverance.
What situation are you in right now? Does it feel like discipline? Is it harsh and lasting for way too long? Is it defeating? Whatever situation you are in right now, it matters who knows your future. Since God is the only one who knows thefuture, then doesn’t it make sense to seek him in whatever situation we are in? Then we will know Him and His promises for our future.
Oh, by the way, if God makes a promise in God’s Word you can hold him to that promise. So seek him and find God’s promises for you and your hope-filled future!
Pastor Brad Heintz is the founding pastor of Living Word Church in Taylor Lake Village, Texas, a vibrant family-style, non-denominational gathering of believers who take a pure, simple and real approach to faith and life. www.LWCBA.org
Totally Bayish with Kippy Caraway
NASSAU BAY REINDEER RUN
INTERFAITH CARING MINISTRIES FESTIVAL OF TREES
ASSISTANCE LEAGUE OF THE BAY AREA
BAHEP
ABPW FRIENDS
Meet Moe, full of feline charm and charisma, with a soft coat and amber eyes. He’s a lap aficionado, finding love and contentment as he curls up for a nap. He’s also into lounging on a cat tree. Moe harbors a playful spirit that delights in engaging in spirited games like chasing the ball track or feather toys. He adores the intoxicating aroma of cat nip, and thinks wet food and Temptation Treats are to die for. His easy going nature and ability to get along with other cats make him a great fit for any home.
Hi, I’m Rover! My days are filled with fun and exploration. I’m a sweet little fellow, always ready to share a purr or a playful paw tap. I’m curious too, eager to discover new toys and hidden corners. My bravery often surprises me, like when I first climbed the tallest cat tree. I’ve got a funny side as well, my silly antics can bring a smile to anyone’s face. Life in the shelter is good, but I dream of a home where I can share my love and adventures. Adopt me and let’s make beautiful memories together.
Come see us at Bay Area Pet
We are looking for our Forever Home!
Hi! My name is Henry, and I’m a dog (no surprise), a bird dog. I know that because my DNA says I’m Chesapeake Bay Retriever and German Shorthaired Pointer. I haven’t had any bird dog training, but I’m really good at retrieving stuffed animals and in true bird dog form, I don’t tear them up. They are gently held in my mouth. I’ve had a bit of basic training and I look forward to a refresher class as well as some new challenges. All of us bird dogs are over achievers you know! As I’m a social dude, I get along great with other dogs. My dream family would like to take walks and explore, have a big yard, and have lot’s of love to share with me.
Luna is a spirited and joyful soul who brightens every moment with her zest for life. A water lover through and through, Luna’s fondness began as a puppy, when she would climb into the pails that were used for drinking water in the dog yards and splash around. Now, she’s graduated to kiddie pools, where she continues to bask and play with the same puppy-like delight. With an unwavering love for toys—especially soft ones, even if they don’t squeak—she’ll happily chase after them with boundless enthusiasm and then enjoy a good chew. Luna has the charm of a house-trained sweetheart who knows the comforts of home, paired with a disposition as warm and loyal as they come. She’s ready to be someone’s steadfast companion, sharing her joy, enthusiasm, and devotion every step of the way.
Moe Rover
Luna
Henry
Imaginehowstudents’dreamsarerocket-fueled thanks to their first-hand introduction to agricultural,livestock,science,andspaceexploration.
Thegardenalsofeatureslimestonegraciouslydonatedbyoneoftheoriginal donors in 1996,addingauniqueandmeaningfultouchtothespace.
On December 7, during the Holiday Appreciation Luncheon, The Longhorn Project Board of Directors honored Dr. Sandra Mossman, retired superintendent of Clear Creek Independent School District and visionary for the implementation of the agriculture and STEM educational field trip program, by dedicating the newly renovated 'Mossman Garden for the Center of Agriculture, Science, and Engineering' in her name. “This dedication not only recognizes Dr. Mossman's significant contributions and lasting impact on our educational programs but also ensures that her legacy will continue to inspire future generations" said Andrea Wilson, Chairman of the Board of Directors.
Gary Mossman & Dr. Sandra Mossman City of Nassau Bay Councilwoman Ashleigh Klug, LHP Field Trip
Coordinator Susan Parker, LHP Chairman & Executive Director Andrea Wilson, LHP Supporter Gary Mossman
The Longhorn Project’s Center for Agriculture, Science, and Engineering, a 501c3 nonprofit organization, provides interactive education for grades 3-12, inspiring the next generation of leaders in agriculture and STEM. Since 2002, over 90,000 students have participated in educational field trip, summer youth camp & show team programs.
MEET Fletcher F. Cockrell
Fletcher F. Cockrell, a seasoned trial attorney based in Houston, Texas, has built a distinguished career representing individuals in high-stakes personal injury cases. Known for his approachable, down-to-earth style with clients, Fletcher is a fierce advocate in the courtroom, fighting relentlessly to secure justice for those who need it most. His background as a collegiate basketball coach instilled in him a strong sense of leadership, persistence, and teamwork –qualities he brings to every case as he guides his clients through their legal battles.
Aggresive representation you can trust.
Fletcher Cockrell | Attorney At Law
fcockrell@hotmail.com
832-457-2332
With decades of experience, Fletcher has represented clients across the United States and is admitted to practice law in Texas and before the U.S. District Courts for the Southern and Western Districts of Texas. Throughout his career, he has always championed the underdog, tirelessly advocating for victims of catastrophic injuries. His extensive trial experience includes cases involving wrongful death, chemical exposure, industrial accidents, 18-wheeler/commercial vehicle accidents, maritime/offshore accidents, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), and sexual harassment/retaliation cases.
He has secured millions in verdicts and settlements for his clients, delivering not only financial relief but also the justice they deserve. In addition to his commanding presence in front of a jury, Fletcher is also a skilled negotiator, leveraging his deep knowledge of the law and keen sense of strategy to reach favorable outcomes for his clients. His ability to negotiate complex settlements has been instrumental in resolving many high-stakes cases –often without the need for lengthy litigation.
Fletcher’s clients know they can rely on him for more than just legal expertise. Every one of his clients has his personal cell phone number—a rare gesture in the legal industry that reflects his commitment to open communication and accessibility. As one client shared: “We felt like we were his number one priority. We felt more like family rather than clients. Fletcher was relentless in obtaining witness testimony. He secured a settlement for us that was bigger than we ever thought possible.”
From 2016 to 2023, Fletcher played a pivotal role in one of Texas’ largest toxic tort cases, representing 645 plaintiffs from the Highlands, Channelview, and Baytown areas.
The case centered on over 500,000 pounds of dioxin (Agent Orange) that had been dumped into the San Jacinto River in the 1960s, causing widespread harm to the local population. Hundreds of families battled against cancer diagnoses because of the toxic chemicals dumped into the river by two Fortune 500 companies. Fletcher teamed up with the legendary attorney Richard Mithoff to secure a confidential multi-million-dollar settlement for the victims. His advocacy also led to the defendants, International Paper and Waste Management Inc., contributing a combined $115 million to clean up the toxic site in order to protect future generations, as well.
Outside of his personal injury practice, Fletcher is committed to giving back to his community, and has provided pro bono legal services to various organizations for decades. Since 2003, he has served as Chief Legal Counsel for the Texas Association of Basketball Coaches, offering valuable support to Texas high school and collegiate coaches.
Fletcher Cockrell holds a Juris Doctor from Michigan State University College of Law, a Master’s Degree from McNeese State University, and a Bachelor’s Degree from East Texas Baptist University. He is an active member of the Texas Trial Lawyers Association, the Houston Bar Association, the American Bar Association, and the Galveston County Bar Association.
Born and raised in Orange, Texas, Fletcher now calls The Woodlands home. Here, he tirelessly advocates for his clients while fostering the personal connections that distinguish him in the field of personal injury law. In addition to his legal practice, Fletcher is the author of the published legal fiction novel Dismissed With Prejudice.
Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership Spotlight
This year, Robinette & Company Caterers proudly celebrates five decades of providing exceptional culinary experiences to clients across the Bay Area . From humble beginnings to becoming a recognized leader in the catering industry, the company’s journey is a testament to innovation, passion, and dedication.
A HUMBLE BEGINNING
In 1975, Brenda Robinette & Pat Doyle launched the company with a simple goal: to bring high-quality, memorable food to events of all sizes. Starting out with a small kitchen and a handful of employees, the company quickly built a reputation for its personalized service and culinary excellence. Word spread, and soon Robinette& Company Caterers was catering everything from local weddings to corporate banquets. Innovation and Adaptation.
As the years went on, the company expanded both
its offerings and its reach. Robinette & Company expanded to offering dinners to go , known as "Dish & Dash. “As demand grew, we had to innovate, adapt, and build a team of experts. We always wanted to stay ahead of trends in the culinar world, but also stay true to what made us unique: exceptional service and delicious food,” says Amy Doherty.
Over the decades, the company embraced new food trends, from dietary preferences like gluten-free and vegetarian to modern presentations and international flavors. The ability to adapt to changing tastes while maintaining their commitment to quality has set them apart.
What started as a small venture has remained so throughout the years. Robinette & Company Caterers is now run by Amy Doherty who took the reins after Brenda Robinette passed away in 2021. They have continued the legacy of personalized service and high standards, while bringing fresh ideas and energy to the table.
“Being a small business means everything to us,” says Amy Doherty “Our clients can see that we care. It's not just about catering an event; it's about creating an experience.”
MILESTONES AND ACHIEVEMENTS
Over the past 50 years, Robinette & Company Caterers has catered for countless high-profile events, from celebrity weddings to corporate galas. They have won numerous industry awards for culinary excellence and outstanding service. Their commitment to quality has also led to long-standing relationships with some of the region's most prestigious venues.
One of their proudest moments came in 2019 when they were selected as the “Out of this World” Winner at the Clear Lake Area Chamber’s Epicurean Night. They have gone on to receiving this award again in 2023. This prestigious event put them on the map in a whole new way.
“That was a game-changer for us,” recalls Amy Doherty “It allowed us to showcase the full scope of what we can do, and it opened up so many doors.”
LOOKING AHEAD
“We’re always looking to the future,” says Amy Doherty “The world is changing, and we’re evolving with it. But our mission will always remain the same: to provide the best possible food and service, and to make every event unforgettable.”
A LEGACY OF EXCELLENCE
With half a century of success behind them, Robinette & Company Caterers stands as a true leader in the catering industry. Their story is one of passion, perseverance, and a commitment to creating exceptional dining experiences.
As they look to the future, one thing is certain: the next 50 years will be just as flavorful as the first. Stop by their storefront at 216 Kirby Road, Seabrook Texas 77856 to check out their Dish & Dash, Dinners to Go 281.326.3663 Robinetteandcompany.com
Tookie’s Burgers offers the “Train Room” with a toy train circling the room sometimes and celebrations up to 60 folks
T-Bone Tom's patio sits pretty big groups…even spur of the moment large parties.
Tookie’s Seafood has private room for 30 to 120 folks
LARGE PARTIES
Just Give Us a CALL!
fromRobyn
OF THE MONTH Recipe Pan
By Robyn Weigelt
INGREDIENTS
12 large sea scallops
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp unsalted butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Lemon wedges
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Prepping Instructions :
Prep scallops by draining not washing !!! Place on rack or paper towel to dry before adding to skillet.
Cooking Instructions :
Heat Olive oil in a heavy large skillet med high Carefully add the scallops
Make sure not to overcrowd Cook from 1-2 minutes on each side or until golden brown and caramelized.
Do not move around while cooking to ensure a nice sear.
Add Butter:
Once the scallops are seared on both sides ,add the butter, let it melt and coat the scallops and baste with butter for added flavor.
Serve with your favorite vegetable ,quinoa or rice….. salad of your choice and Enjoy
P.S. Do Not forget the dinner candles, wine, and flowers
Seared Scallops for Your Special Evening Valentine’s Dinner
FOOD REVIEW BY SUMER
MIRU SEAFOOD: WHERE GLOBAL FLAVORS MEET
CULINARY ARTISTRY
MiRu Seafood is a hidden gem that combines modern sophistication with warm, cozy charm.
Owned by the passionate duo Andy and Jessie Zhuo, this culinary haven is a celebration of fresh, sushi-grade seafood, inventive flavors, and impeccable hospitality.
Built on the success of Michiru Sushi in Clear Lake—known for its creative twist on sushi—MiRu Seafood expands its vision with a bold menu inspired by ocean flavors from around the world. Building on their roots in coastal China, Andy and Jessie infuse their heritage and global inspiration into every dish. By cutting all fish in-house, they ensure unmatched freshness in a dining experience that is unforgettable, refined, and heartfelt.
“Cooking is part of who I am—it’s in my DNA,” said Andy. “Every dish tells a story. It’s about the details—the freshness, the balance, and the care we put into every plate.”
A seasoned sushi chef with over a decade of experience in New York City, Andy ensures every plate reflects his dedication to robust flavors and highquality ingredients.
The vibe at MiRu strikes a perfect balance between comfort and elegance. With dark wood accents and a contemporary aesthetic, the restaurant provides an inviting atmosphere, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual evening with friends.
The bar adds an extra layer of sophistication, offering expertly crafted drinks to complement the culinary experience. The Blood Orange Martini strikes a perfect balance of sweet and citrusy, while the Lychee Martini, infused with a hint of lavender, adds a floral twist. For fans of classic cocktails, the menu includes several variations of the Old Fashioned, including the Texas Old Fashioned, made with house-crafted bitters and the nutty essence of pecan. Begin your MiRu experience with appetizers that set the tone for exceptional dining. The lobster cones, filled with fresh Maine lobster and wrapped in
delicate house-made rice crisps, are elevated by signature sauces that enhance the flavor. Equally enticing are the crabcakes, featuring generous chunks of crab with minimal filler and paired with a tangy yuzu sauce—one of the restaurant’s many carefully crafted sauces.
For sushi lovers, the tuna chilly chile offers layered spicy flavors paired with sesame-infused puffed rice chips for added texture. The shrimp lollipops, glazed with jalapeño-ginger-soy and served with creamy aioli, deliver an explosion of flavor in every bite. The live oyster shooters are fresh and delicate, with a pristine aftertaste. The standout is the Pink Moon oysters from Prince Edward Island, elevated by a drizzle of ponzu, a drop of Sriracha, and a sprinkle of scallions for a perfect balance of briny, spicy, and savory flavors.
For entrées, the Icelandic wolffish is beautifully prepared with house-made lobster citrus brown butter for a luxurious flavor. The seafood pot, featuring a Thai-inspired blend of red curry, miso cod, clams, mussels, shrimp, and mushrooms, offers an array of aromatic flavors. For non-seafood lovers, the menu features options like chicken katsu, pork chops, and certified Angus filet mignon.
MiRu Seafood is a testament to the Zhuos’ dedication to excellence, combining their heritage, a sense of community and camaraderie, and a love for exceptional food. “If you can’t feel the passion behind every dish, then we haven’t done our job,” said Andy.
EVENT LINEUP
NIGHT BIRD - A TRIBUTE TO STEVIE NICKS / FLEETWOOD MAC
SATURDAY January 4th
GEORGE STRAIT TRIBUTE
SATURDAY, Jan 18th
TEXAS FLOOD
FRIDAY, January 31st
PIRATE FEST
WEDNESDAY, February 15TH
MARDI GRAS
TUESDAY, March 4th
Mark Your Calendars and Join Us for a Day of Fun and Philanthropy! It’s 5 O’Clock Somewhere!
On Friday, January 31, 2025, don’t miss the 58th Annual Fashion Show and Luncheon hosted by the HLS&R Houston Metro Go Texan NASA/Clear Creek/Friendswood Sub-committee.
Prepare for a breezy celebration filled with tropical vibes and carefree fun! Enjoy a delicious luncheon, fabulous fashion, boutique shopping, entertainment, and the company of friends all while supporting a wonderful cause at
Great Wolf Lodge Webster 1000 Great Wolf Way, Webster, TX 77598 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Admission:
• $1,800 for a Platinum tier reserved table of 8
• $1,480 for a Gold tier reserved table of 8
• $1,360 for a Silver tier reserved table of 8
• $175 per individual ticket
• Free Parking
• 21 and up
Reserve your table today using this link: https://forms.gle/AcRS4qzAf7jTfffh6 Platinum tables are closest to the runway, followed by Gold then Silver. Individual tickets are available only for Silver tables.
Community Support: This event thrives thanks to the generous contributions of donors and volunteers. Together, we can make a lasting difference in the lives of young people! The HLS&R Houston Metro Go Texan committees are instrumental in raising awareness of the Show through special events in the Houston Metro area. The funds raised at these events go toward scholarships awarded by the HLS&R. In 2024, $200,000 in scholarships were granted to high school seniors from Clear Creek ISD and Friendswood ISD.
For donor, ticket, and vendor information, please contact: Lisa Gurgos at nasahmgt@gmail.com or 832-283-5296
Commitment to Service Continues at Johnson for Military Retirees
By Linda Grimm
For some people, working for NASA is a lifelong dream. For others, it is an interesting NASA and the military have shared strong connections since the agency’s early days. From the nation’s earliest aeronautic research and the recruitment of test pilot astronauts to modern-day technology development, satellite management, and planetary defense, NASA has built alongstanding partnership with the military. This legacy of collaboration has created natural opportunities for former service members to join NASA’s ranks at the conclusion of their military careers.
Jerry Swain is one of the many veterans working at Johnson Space Center in Houston today. Swain was recruited by NASA contractor McDonnell Douglas after leaving the military in 1980. He commissioned as a second lieutenant and served in the Air Force for 12 years, flying nearly 200 combat missions during two tours in Vietnam.
“The shuttle program was starting, and they needed ex-military pilots to serve as simulation instructors,” he said. Swain specialized in control and propulsion systems instruction for several years before becoming the training team lead for shuttle missions. Following the Challenger accident in 1986, Swain transitioned to supporting the International Space Station Program and Return to Flight evaluations. He has been a civil servant since 1989 and a training facility manager since 2006.
NASA’s Pathways Internship Program has also provided a point of entry for former service members. John Smith was studying mechanical engineering at the University of Texas at El Paso when he made an impactful Johnson connection.
“I met with a former flight director, Ms. Ginger Kerrick, at a career fair hosted by my university,” he said. “Pathways happened to be accepting applications at the time and she enthusiastically encouraged me to apply. I never expected to get a response, much less an offer. I couldn't say yes fast enough when it came!”
For others, the NASA SkillBridge Program has been instrumental in helping them transition from military to civilian careers. The program connects individuals in their final months of military service with a NASA office or organization. SkillBridge fellows work anywhere from 90 to 180 days, contributing their unique skillsets to the agency while building their network and knowledge. Since fellows’ pay and benefits are provided by their military branch, their support comes at no additional cost to NASA. Johnson hosted the agency’s first-ever SkillBridge fellow in spring 2019, paving the way for many others to follow.
Albert Meza, an Air Force space professional, was among this first wave of SkillBridge members at NASA. Approaching retirement from the Air Force in November 2019, Meza planned to move his family back to Houston that summer, then join them in the fall once his military service ended. A colleague encouraged him to apply for SkillBridge because it would let Meza move with his family. Meza was skeptical, noting the military is not typically flexible on moves or timelines, but after a quick meeting with his commanding officer and finding a Johnson team to work with, he was on his way to Houston. “It was unbelievable,” he said. “It kind of fell into my lap.”
Today Meza is a payload integration manager for NASA’s CLPS (Commercial Lunar Payload Services) program, working within the Exploration Architecture,
Integration, and Science Directorate at Johnson. In this role, he acts as a liaison between payload teams and the vendor developing a lander to help ensure flight requirements are understood and met.
Meza is also one of SkillBridge’s on-site coordinators. He said that when he first arrived at Johnson, he realized the program was relatively unknown. “I thought, I need to take the responsibility for waving the flag for SkillBridge at NASA.” Meza works tirelessly to educate service members, military leaders, and NASA supervisors about the program’s benefits. He also emphasizes how easy it is for NASA supervisors to host a fellow. “You get someone for six months who is already disciplined, loyal, and has all of these highly trained credentials,” he said. “Any civil servant supervisor can host a SkillBridge fellow The only real requirement is that the supervisor can provide IT assets and a work location.”
Johnson has hosted more than 25 SkillBridge fellows since the program’s inception. Many fellows have since accepted full-time positions with NASA, including Patricia “Trish” Elliston. Meza found her a SkillBridge position with the center’s Protective Services Division in spring 2023. Elliston relocated to Houston in 2020, a few years prior to her anticipated retirement from the U.S. Coast Guard. Living in Houston and interacting with numerous NASA employees, along with prior experience working with the agency in maritime safety, convinced Elliston that Johnson was the place for her.
“During my internship I networked as much as possible and made every effort to learn as much as I could so that I could be better prepared to start my civilian career,” Elliston said. “I worked hard and learned a lot, and when a job opportunity became available, I applied.” She now works as a cyber intelligence analyst within the Flight Operations Directorate.
Meza notes that SkillBridge is a transition program, not a hiring program, and that some fellows have not received a job offer or have decided to pursue other opportunities. What happens after a SkillBridge fellowship depends on each individual and whether they’ve demonstrated their potential and builtrelationships in a way that turns this ‘foot in the door’ into a full-time position.
Patricia Elliston flies aboard an aircraft during a mission (left) and visits Johnson Space Center’s Space Vehicle Mockup Facility while serving in the U.S. Coast Guard. Images courtesy of Trish Elliston
Jerry Swain during his Air Force career (left) and as a facility manager at Johnson Space Center in Houston. Images courtesy of Jerry Swain
Albert Meza visits Johnson Space Center’s Space Vehicle Mockup Facility while serving in the Air Force (left) and receives an award from NASA astronaut Rex Walheim during his retirement ceremony at Space Center Houston. Images courtesy of Albert Meza.
RICK'S PICKS
Have you ever noticed how many towns are named after their water towers? I guess when you spend as much time running around Texas as I do, you begin to ask questions of that sort. But that’s exactly what first caught my attention driving into town— this place is different. The water tower is a giant watermelon, but the town is called Luling. I knew good things were in store for me in a place that bucks the norm. Besides, it had to be great. I was here for barbecue, a mandatory stop for me on any trip west!
As I made my way to the front of the line in the pit room, I overheard an interesting conversation between two of the employees, a man who appeared to be in is sixties and a much younger kid who looked about college age. I’m guessing the kid was a trainee, new on the job. I saw him take an instant read thermometer from his back pocket and stick it into a brisket. I wasn’t alone. The old man also noticed and immediately asked what he was doing (but not in such gentle language). The kid seemed to be proud of himself and answered that he’d spent the entire weekend studying about barbecue so he could learn his job faster. He said the websites all say brisket is done when it reaches 205 degrees. The old man looked dumbfounded and after a few seconds replied, “If you want to be a data expert, keep doing what you’re doing. If you want to be a good pitmaster, ignore all that and learn to be barbecue-wise.”
I doubt the kid understood. But I certainly did.
What the kid had acquired was a piece of information, a data point. What the pitmaster wanted in an employee was wisdom. There is a world of difference. Information is having facts and data at our disposal. With the internet, this is not much of a challenge today. But information is not of much use by itself. In order for it to be useful in any way, information requires knowledge, which is having clarity about those facts and truths, understanding what they mean, how they
interact with other facts and why they are useful. Yes, a brisket is done at 205, but if we leave it on the pit till it reaches that temp, it is ruined. The kid didn’t understand that, and even if he did, he was still only a small part of the way there. He still wouldn’t know when to wrap it, when to pull it from the pit and place it in an ice chest, and when to take it out and serve it. We can only hope that, at some point, he jettisons the thermometer completely and can do the job because he truly understands brisket. At that point, he has reached barbecue wisdom.
The same holds true in every aspect of life. Wisdom is the understanding of the “big picture,” of how the universe (or the world of barbecue) works. Wisdom gives us the practical ability to make consistently good decisions—to understand who we are and what we do. Wisdom is so much more than knowledge or information. Information and knowledge can be gathered by study over time; wisdom is different.
If I have studied a subject for five years longer than you have, chances are high that I have obtained a larger number of facts, perhaps even a greater degree of knowledge. If, however, I am older than you by those same five years, no such correlation exists for wisdom. Its acquisition is much less predictable. In the avalanche of information we sometime bury ourselves, we may gain expertise, but we can actually lose wisdom. Think about the times you have spent going down rabbit holes of information, looking at smaller and smaller parts of a whole. You get to be an expert on the details, but you can easily lose track of the big picture, how the world works.
I don’t mean to be sacrilegious here. I understand that for many in Texas, barbecue is the single most important thing in the universe. But wisdom in the bigger, broader sense, is far more useful to us than just barbecue wisdom. True wisdom is an understanding of the world and of life. It gives us three main tools to make our lives better. First, we gain the ability to make good decisions every day. We also gain an adaptability, a knack of rolling with the punches. Finally, and probably most important, we get inner peace and
TEXAS MEDITATIONS
By Michael Gos
Wisdom and Information
a sense of well-being.
Confucius said there are three ways to achieve true wisdom. The first is by self-reflection, which he says is noblest. We do this by thinking, perhaps journaling, about things that happen in our lives and about our reactions to them. The second way is by imitation, which he says is easiest. We don’t have the luxury to remake all the mistakes ever made since the beginning of time. But we can learn from the wise men who made those mistakes already. The third way is by experience—making mistake after mistake until you finally figure it out. He says this is “the bitterest.” It’s hard to disagree with that evaluation. Sadly, our education system today pushes students toward information, hoping a few might eventually achieve knowledge. The search for wisdom is not just ignored, it is often discouraged. Students seldom have the opportunity to follow Confucius’ second method, talking to wise people, especially to those long dead. All of the big questions have been discussed, debated and sometimes answered long ago. These discussions are easily found in our literature, a literature that is ignored and sometimes even vilified. A good chunk of our wisdom comes from the oral period in man’s history. Think Socrates and Plato’s Academy. Yet, if you want your kid to experience a great books program in school, you have to find a “classical education” academy. Those can be hard to find.
Really, this is not a new problem, one brought on by the avalanche of information now bombarding us on a daily basis. It is easy to think this just happened as a result of the invention of the Internet that buried us in data and the cell phone that made us slaves to it. In fact, it was an issue even before the world switched from an industrial economy to one of information.
T. S. Eliot once lamented, “Where is the wisdom we have lost in knowledge? Where is the knowledge we have lost in information?” Eliot died in 1965; the Internet was invented 1983. Perhaps this problem is, and always has been, a condition of man.
