Jeret Howard, a former Army combat medic and 15‑year contractor at NASA’s Stennis Space Center, was appointed to a civil service role as a logistics management specialist. NASA announced a directive to convert contractors to civil servants, a move that supports the agency’s Artemis program and ensures taxpayer dollars are used efficiently.

Previous work involved mechanical technician duties, building test infrastructure and securing hardware for propulsion testing. In his new role he anticipates engineering team needs and coordinates components for tests that include Blue Origin activities.

“It is absolutely a continuation of service,” Howard said. “Mechanical work is a challenge; everything is a puzzle. Even when it seems monotonous, there is always something new. Once you become skilled, you do not want to waste it.”

He said his family motivates his commitment: “My little girl can look at me and be proud, and know she can do anything,” he said. He added that his teenage son hopes to become a NASA engineer.

The Howards enjoy dirt biking and boating in their free time. During the Artemis II launch last April they set up a tablet outside their boat and amplified the broadcast, with Howard noting his daughter felt the bass of the launch.

His transition places him directly within NASA’s workforce as the agency advances human lunar exploration.