Miyoshi Thompson

Doing innovative contracting is the most fun thing about my job. I think a lot of people think of contracts as pushing paper, but really, it's more than that. Working in procurement is creative. Why? Because I have to find creative ways of supporting research integration with innovative contracting to commercialize low-Earth orbit that aligns with the NASA strategic plan for commercialization. My job is to push the framework and limitations of current contract vehicles and think outside of the box. 

The Office of Procurement has supported me and others to be creative outside of procurement as well. I’ve maximized this support by leading in the creation and initiation of Women Excelling in Life and Leadership (WELL), a women’s Employee Resource Group (ERG). I wanted to start a women’s ERG because there was nothing that existed at JSC to leverage the unique perspectives of all women, attract diverse talent to JSC and develop women in all careers centerwide.  

When I started WELL, my life had changed. I became a mother and had to learn how to balance work and life. I started having those same worries and questions other women had at JSC. It was a great avenue to help women across the center find a place for fellowship, professional development, mentorship and work/life balance support.