Young Professional Profile December 2017

Name: Courtney M. Oliver                                   

Hometown
Topeka, KS                  

Currently lives in
Baltimore, MD             

Education

• BS AAE, Purdue University, 2011

   

• MS SSE, Johns Hopkins University, 2017

Employer
Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI)

Job Description
I am currently a Project Manager in our Program Management Office. I am working to implement project management standards and best practices across our Institute to enable us to better excel in the development and science operations of space-based telescopes.

As a kid, what did you want to be when you “grew up”?            
Of course, I wanted to be an astronaut. But, I also wanted to be a Russian translator/interpreter and an actress.

How far can YOU see?   Where do you see the aerospace industry 10-20 years from now? 
I see humanity pushing boundaries; boundaries of our current knowledge and technology, but also the boundaries of exploration as humanity explores near-space and beyond through manned missions and space-based telescopes.

One insightful fact you want everyone to know:  
If you don't know something, admit it. Don't make something up that could be wrong. Say "I don't know, but I will find out" and live up to that promise.

Professional Interests:
Project and program management, spacecraft development and operations, coordination with scientists to push the envelope of knowledge

Hobbies:  
I am an avid hiker and backpacker and can often be found on a trail with my husband and dog.