Keith Koehler: Wallops’ News Chief Excels in Leadership and Communication

Introducing Keith Koehler: A Dedicated Communicator at NASA’s Wallops Flight Facility

In the vast world of space exploration and scientific advancement, individuals like Keith Koehler play a crucial role in bridging the gap between complex scientific endeavors and the public. As the News Chief and Public Affairs Specialist at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center’s Wallops Flight Facility, Keith not only manages media relations but also crafts engaging stories about NASA’s exciting activities, making them accessible to audiences worldwide.

Educational Background and Journey to NASA

Keith’s journey into the world of space exploration began with his academic pursuits. Holding a Bachelor of Arts in journalism from Murray State University and a Master of Business Administration from Bellarmine University, both located in Kentucky, Keith’s educational journey provided a solid foundation for his future endeavors in communications.

His career with NASA started in 1978 when he joined the NASA Langley Research Center’s Public Affairs Office as a cooperative education student, a form of internship that allowed him to gain hands-on experience. In 1984, he transitioned to Wallops as the Visitor Center manager while completing his master’s degree. After graduating, he returned to Wallops and eventually became the lead of the Wallops Public Affairs Office in 1990. Keith’s commitment to NASA is evident, having devoted almost his entire career to the Wallops’ Office of Communications.

A Career at Wallops: Fast-Paced and Rewarding

Keith’s dedication to Wallops is not only professional but also personal. Growing up in an urban environment, he found the rural setting of Wallops to be a refreshing change. The opportunity to work with scientists from around the globe on varied research projects added to the allure. Wallops’ projects, which typically run from six months to two years, offer a fast-paced work environment filled with diverse activities and challenges.

Moreover, Wallops holds a special place in Keith’s heart, as it is where he met his wife, Lisa, a native of the area. His attachment to Wallops is deeply rooted in both his personal and professional life.

Notable Projects and the Impact of Wallops

One of the standout projects Keith has been involved with is Northrop Grumman’s Antares program. The program is significant not only for its contribution to supplying the International Space Station but also for its positive impact on the local community. Since its inception in 1945 as a launch facility, Wallops has evolved into a world-class center for launching larger rockets, a transformation Keith has witnessed since joining in 1984.

Each project Keith has worked on, whether it involves sounding rockets, scientific balloons, or aircraft missions, is unique and involves collaboration with great minds. However, what Keith cherishes most is the people he works with, who are eager to share their groundbreaking work with the public.

Legacy and Advice for Aspiring Science Communicators

Keith hopes to leave a legacy as a person of integrity who successfully communicated Wallops’ mission to the public and supported educational initiatives through hands-on programs and internships. His advice for those entering the field of science communication is straightforward: harbor a passion for learning and curiosity. The ability to convey scientific findings in a way that the public can understand is crucial, and it requires strong communication skills and an understanding of scientific and engineering complexities.

A good science communicator, according to Keith, is one who listens attentively to the mission support staff, such as scientists and engineers, and then translates that information into a digestible format for the public. Additionally, understanding the public’s interests and questions is vital.

Memorable Campaigns and the Evolution of Wallops

Reflecting on his 41 years with NASA, Keith finds it challenging to pick a favorite campaign, given the numerous missions and field campaigns he has supported. His work has taken him across various locations, including Alaska, New Mexico, California, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico, highlighting the diverse nature of NASA’s projects.

Over the years, Wallops has maintained its “can-do” attitude, focusing historically on suborbital projects using sounding rockets, scientific balloons, and science aircraft. Recently, there has been a shift towards small satellite projects, involving management, development, testing, and tracking. The establishment of the Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport in 1995 significantly boosted Wallops’ role in commercial launch activities, a development Keith was closely involved in.

Life Beyond Work: Living Near Wallops and Future Plans

Living near Wallops offers Keith a serene lifestyle, with quiet surroundings and proximity to nature. The area’s slower pace is a welcome change from the hustle and bustle of city life, yet it is conveniently close to Washington, D.C., for day trips.

As Keith approaches retirement at the end of the year, he looks forward to traveling with his wife Lisa, indulging in his love for vegetable gardening, and spending time with his grandchild. He also considers part-time teaching and volunteer work, although he has not yet decided on the specifics.

A Six-Word Memoir

Keith’s six-word memoir—”Integrity, faithful, patient, inquisitive, caring, trustworthy”—encapsulates the core values that have guided him throughout his illustrious career.

This article is part of the “Conversations With Goddard” series, which showcases the diverse and talented workforce at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center. For more inspiring stories, visit [Goddard’s “Our People” webpage](https://www.nasa.gov/centers/goddard/about/people/index.html).
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