Janet Petro has made history as the first woman to lead NASA, stepping into the role of acting administrator on January 20, 2025, following her appointment by US President Donald Trump. This milestone marks a significant achievement in the history of the space agency, which has been in operation since 1958.
In a statement shared on LinkedIn, Petro made it clear that NASA would continue to align with the new administration’s policies while remaining dedicated to the agency’s core mission and values. She also urged the NASA workforce to embrace new challenges, highlighting the importance of growth and adaptability for both individuals and the organisation as a whole.
Petro’s appointment comes as she takes over from Bill Nelson, the 14th NASA administrator. Her new role is a historical moment, as she becomes the first woman to take the helm of NASA in any capacity.
In her statement, Petro shared her sense of honour in leading NASA. She wrote: “NASA will align with the new administration’s policies while staying true to our mission and values.” She added, “This is a reminder to our NASA workforce to lean into new experiences, because when we shy away from things that challenge us, we rob ourselves of the opportunity to grow.”
About Janet Petro
Janet E Petro is a seasoned engineer and civil servant with a distinguished career. She currently serves as the acting NASA administrator, as well as the 11th director of NASA’s John F. Kennedy Space Center, a position she has held since June 30, 2021, when Bill Nelson appointed her. Petro made history again with this appointment, as she became the first woman to hold both of these significant positions.
Before taking on these high-profile roles, Petro served as deputy director of the Kennedy Space Center. Her career began in the US Army, where she was a commissioned officer, piloting helicopters and overseeing troop assignments in Germany as part of the Army’s Aviation Branch.
Following her military service, Petro transitioned into civilian work, taking on various management roles at Science Applications International Corporation. She also worked as a mechanical engineer and payload specialist at McDonnell Douglas Aerospace Corporation before joining NASA.
Throughout her career, Petro has earned several accolades, including being inducted into the Florida Women’s Hall of Fame in 2018.
As she takes charge of NASA, Petro will oversee the agency through a critical period of transition, ensuring that it remains focused on its mission to explore space, while continuing to uphold the highest standards of science and engineering excellence. Her leadership also underscores the growing representation of women in the field of space exploration, paving the way for future generations to follow in her footsteps.