Infinite Careers is a collaboration between Career Services (CAPD) and the MIT Alumni Association to explore career paths and the non-linearity of career decision-making. Read profiles of alumni with unique career paths, hear their stories, and network at a series of talks.
Education
- Wellesley College, Bachelor of Arts, Physics and Astronomy
- MIT, SM – Master Of Science, 12 – Earth, Atmospheric, and Planetary Sciences
Bio
Pam Melroy is a senior aerospace executive with government and industry experience across civil, commercial, and national security space. She is the former Deputy Administrator of NASA, a former NASA astronaut and Space Shuttle commander, and a retired US Air Force test pilot.
What influenced your choice of undergraduate major? How has it shaped your career choices and professional ability?
I was inspired by the Apollo program to choose a science or engineering field – and I loved everything to do with the sky, so I chose astronomy. Physics was really necessary to get the most out of an astronomy degree so I double majored. Although most of my career has been in engineering, I have never lost the wonder of science!
What has been the most rewarding aspect of your career?
Certainly the most rewarding aspect of my career has been continuous learning. I have loved the opportunities to continue to grow and learn new fields and disciplines, and especially new perspectives.
What motivates you to do the work that you do?
A passion for exploration!
What professional development experiences or opportunities shaped your early career?
I went into the Air Force through ROTC at MIT, and without a doubt the Air Force has had the biggest impact on my career both by teaching my leadership and teamwork skills, which are important in every single thing I’ve done since.
Last Edited: April 2026
