Jaclyn “Jackie” Jester has been appointed as NASA’s new deputy chief of staff, according to an announcement made by Janet Petro, the agency’s acting administrator. Jester’s role will involve leading the coordination and execution of key initiatives, programs, and policies alongside NASA’s administrator and leadership team.
Jester’s appointment follows her tenure as NASA’s associate administrator for the Office of Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs (OLIA), where she managed communications with the U.S. Congress and advised agency leaders on legislative matters. Her experience in legislative affairs is expected to be a significant asset in her new position.
From Legislative Affairs to NASA Leadership
Before her recent role at NASA, Jester was the senior director of government affairs at Relativity Space. She led the Government Affairs team in Washington, D.C., and was instrumental in shaping the company’s legislative strategy, engaging with various government branches on space policy issues.
Jester’s extensive background in policy advising includes her previous work at the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy. There, she advised on space policy issues and co-chaired the Space Weather Operations, Research, and Mitigation interagency working group.
Experience in Government and Policy Development
Jester’s career in government began with her role on the majority staff of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation from 2015 to 2019. Her work involved developing legislation and overseeing agencies such as the FAA and NASA. Her focus areas included aviation operations, safety policy, and space policy.
Her legislative expertise is further underscored by her time as a chief legislative aide in the Massachusetts House of Representatives, where she gained valuable state government experience.
Educational Background and Early Career
A graduate of Boston College, Jester holds a bachelor’s degree in political science with minors in economics and international studies. Her academic background laid the foundation for her career in legislative affairs and policy development.
“Embrace the Challenge,” Janet Petro remarked in her announcement, highlighting the confidence in Jester’s ability to navigate the complexities of her new role at NASA.
Implications for NASA’s Future
Jester’s appointment comes at a pivotal time for NASA, as the agency continues to advance its missions in space exploration, scientific research, and technology development. Her legislative experience is expected to enhance NASA’s engagement with policymakers and help secure the support needed for future initiatives.
According to experts, Jester’s role will be crucial in aligning NASA’s strategies with national policy goals, ensuring that the agency remains at the forefront of space exploration and innovation.
As NASA looks to the future, Jester’s leadership is anticipated to play a key role in shaping the agency’s trajectory. Her ability to bridge the gap between technical expertise and legislative strategy will be vital in navigating the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
Marc Hone, OLIA’s deputy associate administrator, will temporarily fill Jester’s previous role until a permanent replacement is found, ensuring continuity in the agency’s legislative affairs.
The announcement of Jester’s new role marks a significant step in NASA’s leadership strategy, one that is expected to foster stronger ties with legislative bodies and support the agency’s ambitious goals.
