NASA · Space

From Marine Mechanic to NASA Engineer

Jaden Caradine's path to becoming an aerospace engineer at NASA involved a five-year detour as a mechanic in the U.S. Marine Corps, including four years stationed in Japan.

Caradine, who always wanted to be an engineer, discovered his passion for aerospace after researching a company developing a magnetic satellite launch system. This led him to Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.

During his time in the Marines, Caradine explored concepts like ikigai, a Japanese framework for finding purpose at the intersection of what one is good at, enjoys, the world needs, and is paid for.

He actively sought opportunities, attending industry events and learning about NASA's Pathways internship program, which offers a potential path to full-time employment.

Caradine chose NASA over industry roles because he believes NASA's mission is to remove barriers for future industry advancements, rather than working for profit.

At NASA Langley, he works in the Systems Analysis and Concepts Directorate, focusing on in-space servicing, assembly, and manufacturing (ISAM). He contributed to a comprehensive document surveying the ISAM sector and developed a tool to automate news curation for the team.

He was surprised by the collaborative culture at NASA Langley, noting extensive cross-team communication and resource sharing, contrary to his expectations of departmental siloing.

Caradine plans to return to NASA after completing his studies, aiming to focus on developing high-value analytical skill sets for future roles.

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