How Louisiana Native Michelle Hoehn Turned Childhood Wonder into NASA Stennis Career
Michelle Hoehn vividly remembers the day a seed was planted for her future at NASA’s Stennis Space Center near Bay St. Louis, Mississippi.
As a seventh grader, the Bogalusa, Louisiana native joined her father for Father/Daughter Day at NASA Stennis. Hoehn knew she wanted to be part of something bigger, something that sparked wonder and purpose, the moment she visited her father’s office. She remembers feeling a sense of dread and possibility that day.
It wasn’t until her sophomore year at Southeastern Louisiana University — after the birth of her first child — that she focused on building a career. Finance and accounting have always been part of his life. She filed paperwork at her grandfather’s store and helped her mother during tax season.
“It was clear that this field was right for me,” she said.
Today, Hoehn works as an accountant in the office of Chief Financial Officer at NASA Stennis. It ensures that all costs are recorded and reported accurately. Its work supports financial integrity, enabling informed decisions and efficient use of resources.
“It’s incredibly rewarding to know that my work helps maintain transparency and efficiency in NASA’s operations, as each hard number supports the larger mission of space exploration and discovery,” Hoehn said.
Hoehn’s financial management work supports NASA’s Artemis program, which will send astronauts to the Moon to establish a lasting presence and prepare for future human exploration of Mars.
“I am honored to be part of NASA’s Artemis efforts,” she said. “Knowing that my work is helping to open the next chapter of lunar exploration, and ultimately the journey to Mars, is both humbling and deeply motivating.”
One of the most fascinating parts of Hoehn’s job at NASA Stennis is seeing how even the smallest financial details can have a ripple effect on NASA’s big missions.
Although her work often takes place behind the scenes, the data she manages helps guide decisions that impact propulsion testing, technology development and even future space exploration.
“It’s amazing to realize that a spreadsheet I’m working on today could be linked to a rocket engine test of the future,” she said. “This connection between everyday tasks and extraordinary results is something I never take for granted, and it’s what makes working at NASA Stennis so rewarding.”
Working as an accountant on large, complex projects – some worth millions of dollars – also has its challenges.
Projects require precision, attention to detail and a thorough understanding of evolving financial regulations and systems. To stay ahead of the curve, Hoehn keeps an open mind and prioritizes continuous learning. She is always looking for ways to grow, adapt, and strengthen her role in supporting the financial integrity and broader mission of NASA.
This year marks 15 years as a NASA employee for Hoehn and 21 years of service in total at NASA Stennis, where she started as a contractor in 2004.
“The NASA Stennis staff is highly collaborative and mission-driven,” Hoehn said. “Whether you work in engineering, finance or support services, there is a collective sense of purpose and pride in contributing to space exploration and scientific discovery. It is an environment where ideas are welcomed, excellence is encouraged and every individual plays a vital role in the success of NASA’s mission.”
From the moment Hoehn walked into her father’s office as a seventh-grader, she has experienced first-hand the opportunities offered by NASA Stennis.
“NASA Stennis is a place of unlimited potential, not only in its contributions to NASA missions, but also in the opportunities it provides for current and future employees, customers and stakeholders,” Hoehn said. “It’s where I was empowered to exceed the goals I set for myself and continue to grow, both personally and professionally. NASA Stennis is a place where you are encouraged to be a part of something bigger than yourself.”
