Who I Am and What I Do
I began working at NASA Langley Research Center (LaRC) back in August 1990. My job title is Computer Engineer, Aero-Space Technologist (AST) and I work in the Systems Development Branch (SDB). SDB manages the unique state-of-the-art Flight Simulation Facilities at LaRC. You are welcome to visit our web site: Flight Simulation at LaRC.

My specific tasks change based on a project's duration, approximately one year. This provides great opportunities for me to try out different skills and learn new ones. I am constantly learning new things in order to be up to speed with the latest technologies, for example, new software development languages, tools and methodologies.

Primarily, my job consists of supporting our research community with their particular flight research project studies utilizing our simulation facilities. This involves understanding their problem domain, formulating possible solutions, allocating appropriate resources, and ensuring that the results satisfy our researchers' needs.

I believe Flight Simulation has a great future. Especially now when everyone is trying to find ways to do research in a cost-effective manner. Simulation saves energy (aircraft fuel), cuts down on pollution (aircraft exhaust), and saves lives (pilots can't really crash and burn!) Also, with the use of our simulators, we help to improve the design of new planes of the future so that they are safer and more efficient for all. Thereby, we help make planes more accessible to the general public by making it possible for non-pilots to fly for themselves one day.

Some of the major projects I have worked on include: the S-61 Sikorsky helicopter program, and various studies conducted for the High-Speed Research (HSR) program. Both programs used the Visual Motion Simulator (VMS).

Currently, I am the Software Manager for the new Cockpit Motion Facility (CMF) Motion Base (MB) Digital Controller. My work consist in designing and implementing the digital control environment that will drive the CMF MB which has a payload capability of 9,091 kilograms (20,000 lbs.). This system will support motion capability for all of CMF simulator cabs.

In addition, I am the lead Simulation Engineer for LaRC General Aviation (GA) simulator which supports various GA research studies such as Aviation Weather Information (AWIN), Crew Hazards and Error Management (CHEM), Error Proof Flight Deck (EPFD), and Synthetic Vision (SynVis) projects.

Growing up
I always enjoyed math and science. I felt early on that I would pursue my career in some kind of science even though I was not always too sure what field that was going to be. Let's see...my first interest was to become an archeologist, then veterinarian, marine biologist (sharks changed my mind!), computer scientist, engineer, astronomer, and even an astronaut.

Career Path
Well, to make a long story short ... I started by becoming a Computer Scientist. I received my Bachelor of Science degree from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (E-RAU) in Daytona Beach, Florida. I say started because I am continuing my education by just completing a Master of Engineering in Modeling and Simulation from Old Dominion University, and completing my Private Pilot license at LAFB Aero Club. I enjoy learning new things so I might consider pursuing either a Ph.D. or another master's degree sometime in the future. Although, I am still fearful of those sharks, hah!—I believe in one's potential to do anything, even if you have not decided what that thing is yet! Hey, so far I have even applied to the NASA's Astronaut Candidate Program! So the moral of this short story ... "Shoot for the moon and even if you miss you'll still be among the stars" (unknown author) and "Have faith!"

Personal
Looking back I can not really say I was ever told I should not go into sciences but then again I was never really encouraged either—except for my mom. She wanted me to become a doctor. Although, she is quite proud of me being a NASA engineer. Being a female in a male dominated field has become second nature to me. I attribute this to my days in E-RAU where most often I was one of the few, sometimes the only, woman in my classes. Fortunately, more and more women are entering fields that once where filled by men only and that's great! However, I realize that many women do encounter bias in the workplace and have difficulties dealing with their male colleagues. That realization led to my interest in the Federal Women's Program.

Since 1993, I have been an active member of Langley's Federal Women's Program Committee (FWPC) where I participate with other members (both women and men) to find ways to improve working conditions and opportunities for women employees at Langley. FWPC also sponsors various activities throughout the year which provide avenues for further exposure and recognition of women accomplishments.

Since 1996, I have been selected, by our Office of Equal Opportunity Programs (OEOP) Officer, as the Chair of the Hispanic Advisory Group. This group advises the NASA LaRC Hispanic Employment Program Manager (HEPM) on information regarding training and self-development opportunities available, and local community problems which affect our Hispanic employees at the Center. I'm also the webmaster for HEP website.

My participation in HEP led me to being nominated and winning the "1999 Latina of the Year Award in Science & Technology" awarded by "Latina" magazine (featured in their September issue.) This international recognition was a special honor for me and my family. The award, in addition to evaluating an individual's technical background, also reviewed their support of the enhancement of Hispanics in the local community.

My favorite FWPC event is our "Take Our Daughters To Work Day" (4th Thursday in April) program where I participate as a tour host for our Flight Simulator Facilities. I really enjoy enlightening our young women visitors (approximately 50) and inspiring them to be part of non-traditional careers (ex: engineers, pilots, etc.). I encourage everyone who has the opportunity to participate in these type of programs. They are an excellent method of exposing girls at a young age to new possibilities, which may lead them to widening their dreams and expectations.

I also encourage the younger readers to participate in this program at their mother's and/or father's workplace (if possible) or find someone who is willing to sponsor you for that day at their workplace. You will learn of the different career opportunities available and this may help you determine and/or narrow down your own interests.

Advice
"Let every opportunity serve as a means for you to explore and learn!" and "Always treat others as you want them to treat you!"

Archive of chats with Debbie:

• 10-14-99 QuestChat
• 05-12-98 QuestChat

Last Updated: September 21, 2004