In the journey of life, sometimes unexpected events can lead to new and exciting opportunities, opening doors to a future that was never part of the original plan. Such was the case for Jason Phillips, whose career path took an unexpected yet fruitful turn towards the prestigious NASA Johnson Space Center located in Houston, Texas.
Jason Phillips embarked on his professional journey by joining the United States Air Force in 1994, with a steadfast plan to dedicate a minimum of 20 years to military service. However, after 14 years of dedicated service and on the cusp of his third deployment in 2010, Phillips faced an unforeseen medical separation from the military. Reflecting on this pivotal moment, he shared, “In a very short amount of time I had to figure out next steps for a career and lifestyle that no longer involved being an active duty servicemember.”
Despite the abrupt change in his career trajectory, Phillips found a path forward thanks to a special hiring authority granted by the Office of Procurement at Peterson Air Force Base. This opportunity facilitated his transition from military service to a civilian role, allowing him to leverage his experience as an Air Force contracting officer into a new position. Phillips returned to his hometown, Houston, and transitioned from a Department of Defense position to NASA. He assumed the role of a contract specialist at Johnson Space Center, dedicating his initial decade to supporting various functions within the Center Operations Directorate. His expertise and commitment eventually led him to take on the significant responsibility of a lead contracting officer within Johnson’s procurement office, specifically for the International Space Station (ISS) Program.
Currently, Phillips leads a team of highly skilled acquisition professionals who play a critical role in supporting a range of contracts that are essential for the ISS’s ongoing operations. These contracts not only sustain the day-to-day operations of the space station but also enhance the scientific research conducted aboard this unique orbiting laboratory. Additionally, they are integral to ensuring a smooth transition to commercial low Earth orbit destinations in the future. Under his leadership, the team is responsible for strategic planning and the acquisition of contracts that are collectively valued at over $21 billion. Key areas of responsibility include NASA’s Cargo Resupply Services contracts, a cooperative agreement with the Center for the Advancement of Science in Space, and the Research, Engineering & Mission Integration Services-2 contract.
Phillips describes his role as ensuring that high-quality procurement products, services, and support are delivered to meet and exceed the needs of both executive and technical customers. This involves maintaining strict compliance with the relevant statutes, regulations, and guidelines. His work has included revising the original acquisition strategy for the program to reduce delays, focus on cost savings, and prioritize critical infrastructure and services, such as the Environmental Control and Life Support Systems that are vital aboard the space station.
One of the aspects Phillips finds most rewarding about his career is the tangible impact of his work. He states, “This career field almost always allows me to see the fruits of my labor, whether I am procuring office supplies and equipment or managing construction projects.” He recalls the remodeling of Johnson Space Center’s building 20 as his first project at the center, a task he accomplished with pride. Furthermore, Phillips takes great satisfaction in having played a role in the career advancement of his fellow procurement professionals and technical staff. He acknowledges the guidance and technical knowledge imparted to him by those who preceded him, which he now endeavors to pass on to others.
Phillips emphasizes the importance of humility and accountability in finding mission-focused solutions that benefit everyone involved. He advises against making assumptions, highlighting the value of collaboration and open-mindedness. “The people around you are very willing to offer thoughts and insights into a solution to your problem,” he said. “There is so much knowledge to be gained by listening.”
In his message to the Artemis Generation—a term used to describe the new wave of explorers and professionals inspired by NASA’s Artemis program, which aims to return humans to the Moon—Phillips encourages them to actively seek opportunities to expand their technical knowledge and professional growth. He advises, “Help yourself so that you may help others.”
In addition to his contributions at NASA, Phillips’s journey is a testament to the resilience and adaptability required when facing unexpected career changes. His story illustrates how unforeseen circumstances can lead to rewarding new paths, particularly when one remains open to learning and collaboration. It also highlights the significant impact that procurement and contract management play in supporting complex programs like the ISS, underscoring the importance of strategic planning and effective resource management in achieving mission success.
Phillips’s work continues to be pivotal in supporting NASA’s objectives, and his journey serves as an inspiration for individuals navigating their professional paths. His dedication to excellence and his commitment to fostering growth and development within his team are invaluable assets to the Johnson Space Center and the broader space exploration community.
For more details on Jason Phillips’s journey and his contributions to NASA, interested readers can visit NASA’s official website.
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