How Louisiana Native Turned Childhood Wonder into NASA Stennis Career
Michelle Hoehn vividly remembers the day a seed was planted for her future at NASA’s Stennis Space Center near Bay St. Louis, Mississippi.
As a seventh grader, the Bogalusa, Louisiana, native joined her dad for Father/Daughter Day at NASA Stennis. Hoehn knew she wanted to be part of something bigger, something that sparked wonder and purpose, in the moment she visited her dad’s office. She recalled feeling a sense of awe and possibility that day.
It was not until her second year at Southeastern Louisiana University – after the birth of her first child – that she focused on building a career, though. Finance and accounting have always been a part of her life. She filed paperwork at her grandfather’s store and helped her mom during tax season.
“It was clear that this field was the right fit for me,” she said.
Today, Hoehn works as a cost accountant in the Office of the Chief Financial Officer at NASA Stennis. She ensures all costs are accurately recorded and reported. Her work supports financial integrity, enabling informed decisions and efficient use of resources.
“It is incredibly rewarding to know that my work helps keep NASA’s operations transparent and efficient because every accurate number supports the bigger mission of space exploration and discovery,” said Hoehn.
Hoehn’s financial management work supports NASA’s Artemis program that will send astronauts to the Moon to establish a sustainable presence and prepare for future human exploration of Mars.
“I’m honored to be a part of NASA’s Artemis effort,” she said. “Knowing that my work helps enable the next chapter of lunar exploration, and ultimately the journey to Mars, is both humbling and deeply motivating.”
One of the most fascinating parts of Hoehn’s work at NASA Stennis is seeing how even the smallest financial details can have a ripple effect on major NASA missions.
Although her work is often behind the scenes, the data she manages helps guide decisions that impact propulsion testing, technology development, and even future space exploration.
“It is incredible to realize that a spreadsheet I work on today could be tied to a rocket engine test of the future,” she said. “That connection between everyday tasks and extraordinary outcomes is something I never take for granted, and it is what makes working at NASA Stennis so rewarding.”
Working as an accountant on large, complex projects – some worth millions of dollars – also comes with challenges.
The projects demand precision, attention to detail, and a deep understanding of evolving financial regulations and systems. To stay ahead, Hoehn keeps an open mind and embraces continuous learning. She is always looking for ways to grow, adapt, and strengthen her role in supporting NASA’s financial integrity and broader mission.
This year marks 15 years as a NASA employee for Hoehn and 21 years of service overall at NASA Stennis, where she began as a contractor in 2004.
“The workforce at NASA Stennis is highly collaborative and mission-driven,” Hoehn said. “Whether you are working in engineering, finance, or support services, there is a collective sense of purpose and pride in contributing to space exploration and scientific discovery. It is an environment where ideas are welcomed, excellence is encouraged, and every individual plays a vital role in the success of NASA’s mission.”
From the time Hoehn walked in her dad’s office as a seventh-grade student, she has experienced firsthand the opportunities NASA Stennis offers.
“NASA Stennis is a place of unlimited potential, not only in its contributions to NASA’s missions, but in the opportunities it offers to current and future employees, customers, and stakeholders,” Hoehn said. “It is where I have been empowered to exceed the goals I once set for myself and continue to grow, both personally and professionally. NASA Stennis is a place where you are encouraged to be part of something greater than yourself.”
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LaToya Dean
