The People of Johnson: Meet Danielle Johnson, Deputy Project Executive for the Commercial Low Earth Orbit Development Program Office
Danielle Johnson, the Deputy Project Executive for the Commercial Low Earth Orbit Development Program (CLDP) office at NASA’s Johnson Space Center, is crucial in facilitating connections and collaborations with the agency’s commercial partners. Johnson assists space companies with the development of their commercially owned and operated space stations. She provides essential support in acquiring the information and data they need to achieve their objectives.
A passion for space exploration runs in the family, as Johnson's sister, aunt, and parents have all significantly contributed to the agency's missions. She proudly states, “NASA is in my DNA.” Looking ahead, Johnson aspires to inspire her science-loving nephew to join the NASA family.
With a 19-year tenure at the agency, Johnson's journey began in the Engineering Directorate, where she specialized in Crew Health Care Systems and Environmental Control and Life Support Systems. Reflecting on her work, she observed, “Each day brings something new and exciting. My job is dynamic and fast-paced, and it’s exciting to be a part of one of NASA's newer programs.”
Johnson is the former co-chair and chair of Johnson’s Women Excelling in Life and Leadership Employee Resource Group (ERG). She expressed gratitude for the agency's commitment to diversity and inclusion. She emphasized the importance of ERGs, stating, “The ERGs help people who belong to an affinity group talk about things we have in common. I think it’s essential to have that support.”
Throughout her journey at NASA, Johnson’s connection to the agency’s core values significantly influenced her personal values. She embraces truth, integrity, and authenticity as the pillars of her value system. “Working at NASA has not only shaped me as an individual but has also influenced how I show up in the world,” she said.
As a volunteer for the agency’s recruiting team, Johnson's passion lies in communicating the wonders of space exploration with the Artemis Generation. Sharing her experiences with and knowledge about NASA is a particular joy for her, especially when it comes to engaging and mentoring individuals from various backgrounds. Johnson strongly believes in incorporating many perspectives into NASA’s work and culture, stating, “Bringing in more diverse thought is crucial for our organization.” Johnson identified the need to continue fostering a workplace culture where individuals feel comfortable expressing themselves. Inclusive leadership and drawing on the unique experiences of the workforce is a key aspect of her vision.
In addition to sharing the vast possibilities of space exploration with the next generation, Johnson hosts a meditation series teaching stress-relieving techniques to colleagues and interns. As a certified Reiki master and breathwork practitioner, she is passionate about alternative healing methods and finds joy in reading books on spirituality and self-improvement.
Johnson encourages the Artemis Generation to continue to strive for their goals, expand their networks, and pursue NASA internship opportunities like the Pathways program. She firmly believes leadership, communication skills, and assertiveness are crucial for success at the agency. Johnson defines a leader as someone who can help individuals discover hidden parts of themselves and connect people to a shared vision. She would like to pass on to the next generation, “Who you are as a person matters, and your experience matters.”
Johnson eagerly anticipates witnessing the future of NASA unfold. “I’m excited about Artemis and seeing someone on the Moon again to get us on the path to Mars,” she said. In her office, Johnson keeps a picture of a nebula as a reminder that we are all part of something greater than ourselves—a constant source of inspiration.
