![\"Rebecca](\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/rebecca-mataya.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>A career path can unfold in unexpected ways. Ask NASA\u2019s Rebecca Mataya.<\/p>\n
The journey to NASA\u2019s Stennis Space Center near Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, was not planned but \u201cmeant to be,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
While working for a local business, the Picayune, Mississippi, native frequently delivered items to NASA Stennis. While making a delivery, Mataya noticed a construction worker who needed directions while waiting to receive a NASA Stennis visitor\u2019s badge.<\/p>\n
\u201cI stepped in by offering a map and highlighting the way,\u201d Mataya said.<\/p>\n
This small moment of initiative caught the attention of the receptionist, who mentioned an opening at NASA Stennis. She noted that Mataya\u2019s approach to the situation displayed the NASA Stennis culture of hospitality and a can-do attitude.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe rest is history,\u201d she said. \u201cLooking back, it was not just about finding a job \u2013 it was about NASA Stennis finding me, and me discovering a place where I would build a fulfilling career.\u201d<\/p>\n
Since the first day of work when Mataya walked into NASA Stennis \u201cin complete awe,\u201d she has felt like every day is a learning experience filled with \u201cwow\u201d moments, like seeing a test stand up close and meeting rocket engineers.\u00a0<\/p>\n
The Carriere, Mississippi, resident worked as a support contractor from 2008 to 2022, filling various roles from lead security support specialist to technical writer and program manager.<\/p>\n
Her career path has progressed, where each role built upon the previous.<\/p>\n
As a budget analyst in the NASA Stennis Office of the Chief Financial Officer since 2022, Mataya oversees the planning, programing, budgeting, and execution of funds for all Office of Strategic Infrastructure work within the NASA Stennis Center Operations Directorate. She also manages budgets for the NASA Stennis Construction of Facilities projects, and the congressionally approved Supplemental Funding portfolio.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt is a role that requires adaptability, strategic thinking, and financial oversight,\u201d she said. \u201cI have cultivated these skills through years of experience, but more than that, it is a role that allows me to contribute something meaningful to the future of NASA and space exploration.\u201d<\/p>\n
Mataya will complete a master\u2019s degree in Business Administration from Mississippi State University in May. She previously earned her bachelor\u2019s degree from Mississippi State and an associate degree from Pearl River Community College.\u00a0<\/p>\n
\u201cMy career has been shaped by growth and achievement, but the greatest highlight has always been the incredible people I have had the privilege of working with,\u201d she said. \u201cWalking the halls of NASA, where top leaders recognize me by name, is a testament to the trust and relationships I have built over the years.\u201d<\/p>\n
Mataya said supervisors have consistently entrusted her with more complex projects, confident in her ability to rise to the challenge and deliver results. As a result, she has had opportunities to mentor interns and early-career professionals, guiding them as others once guided her.<\/p>\n
\u201cSeeing my colleagues succeed and knowing they have reached their goals, and championing their progress along the way, remains one of the most rewarding aspects of my career,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
Mataya knows from experience that NASA Stennis offers opportunity and a supportive environment, not only for employees looking for career growth, but to customers seeking world-class testing facilities. \u201cNASA Stennis is a place where collaboration thrives,\u201d she said. \u201cIt is where NASA, tenants, and commercial partners come together as one cohesive community with a culture of mutual respect, support, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. As America\u2019s largest rocket propulsion test site, NASA Stennis is evolving, and I look forward to seeing how our technological advancements attract new commercial partners and expand NASA\u2019s capabilities.\u201d<\/p>\n
Powered by WPeMatico<\/a><\/small><\/p>\n Get The Details…<\/a> A career path can unfold in unexpected ways. Ask NASA\u2019s Rebecca Mataya. The journey to NASA\u2019s Stennis Space Center near Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, was not planned but \u201cmeant to be,\u201d she said. While working for a local business, the Picayune, Mississippi, native frequently delivered items to NASA Stennis. While making a delivery, Mataya noticed [\u2026] Continue reading
\nCheryl A. Nelson <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"