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<\/a><\/figure>It has also given her a chance to use some of what she learned from her Russian language course. One of Keyes\u2019 favorite NASA projects involved negotiating a contract modification with Roscosmos to secure transportation of NASA astronauts to the International Space Station via Soyuz spacecraft following the space shuttle\u2019s retirement. \u201cThis project stands out to me both for its impact on NASA\u2019s missions and the way it transcended political and geographical boundaries,\u201d Keyes said. Being a part of this effort reinforced the importance of collaboration on a global scale. \u201cIt demonstrated how shared goals and values can unite people across different nations, regardless of external circumstances,\u201d she said. \u201cThe world is more connected than we often realize.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
Keyes values collaboration on a smaller scale, as well, noting that her procurement role involves working with a wide variety of subject matter experts who are passionate about their respective fields. She acknowledged that procurement staff are sometimes seen as obstructing or slowing a mission rather than enabling it, although she has overcome this challenge through effective communication with stakeholders \u2013 striving to understand their perspectives and present mutually beneficial solutions.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
\u201cMy commitment is to advancing NASA\u2019s missions through the responsible management of taxpayer dollars,\u201d she said. \u201cCollaborating closely with my technical counterparts, I have been able to secure mission-critical services and supplies, all while adhering to regulatory, schedule, and resource constraints.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
<\/a><\/figure>Adaptability has also been important to Keyes\u2019 success. \u201cWhether it\u2019s shifting priorities due to unforeseen challenges, navigating cultural differences within international teams, or adjusting to new acquisition regulations, being flexible and open to change has allowed me to not just survive in dynamic environments, but thrive,\u201d she said. <\/p>\n<\/p>\n
At the same time, Keyes strives to maintain balance in the workplace. \u201cWhat I have learned about myself is that I can do anything, but not everything,\u201d she said. \u201cMaturing in my career has meant accepting that I have limited time, energy, and resources, so it is important to discern what truly matters and focus my efforts there.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
<\/a><\/figure>Keyes\u2019 hard work has been recognized with several awards throughout her career. She is proudest of earning the Office of Procurement Bubbee\u2019s Coach Award, which is given to the team member most likely to serve as a mentor to colleagues. \u201cMuch of my professional and personal growth has stemmed from formal and informal mentors who supported me in navigating challenges, developing new skills, and creating environments for me to thrive,\u201d she said. \u201cI have a great appreciation for those mentors, and I strive to impact those around me similarly.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
Keyes hopes to encourage the Artemis Generation to approach the future \u2013 and periods of uncertainty \u2013 with curiosity, resilience, and a responsibility to care for our planet and the universe. She looks forward to the continued expansion of access to space.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
\u201cI hope to be around for the days where I can afford a reasonably priced, roundtrip ticket to the Moon,\u201d she said. \u201cPerhaps by then they will sell functional spacesuits in the local sporting goods stores.\u201d<\/p>\n
Powered by WPeMatico<\/a><\/small><\/p>\n Get The Details…<\/a> One semester as a NASA Pathways intern was enough to inspire Portia Keyes to sign up for a Russian language class at college. After interning in the Johnson Space Center\u2019s Office of Procurement, Keyes hoped to someday use her new language skills in support of the International Space Station Program. Now, 12 years later, Keyes [\u2026] Continue reading
\nLinda E. Grimm <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"