Edward Victor Gonzales, the Program Manager for People, Culture, and Equity at NASA Goddard, plays a crucial role in ensuring the well-being, comfort, and safety of the workforce. With a diverse background and a passion for making a difference, Gonzales has left an indelible mark on the organization.

Unveiling the Impact of a "People Whisperer" at NASA Goddard

Early Life and Career Path

Gonzales' journey to NASA was not a straightforward one. After graduating from high school, he started at Mount San Antonio Community College but had to work full-time when his then-girlfriend became pregnant. He began in the mail room of an international law firm and gradually worked his way up to director of the support staff. After 15 years at the firm, he received a recommendation from Warren Christopher that helped him secure a job at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. Apollo 13 inspired him to pursue a career at NASA.During his time at JPL, he took a few classes at Pasadena Community College. Later, he was detailed to NASA Headquarters to work in the Office of STEM Education. After two years, he returned to JPL to work on minority-serving programs. In 2014, he returned to Headquarters for a fellowship and then returned to JPL to manage underserved, underrepresented undergraduate programs. Finally, in 2018, he came to Goddard to do outreach for the heliophysics division and later became the diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility officer.

Responsibilities as People, Culture, and Equity Officer

Gonzales' responsibilities are wide-ranging. He constantly observes the world around him, noticing cues and things that others might miss. When something impacts a colleague or a particular culture, he makes sure to check in with them regularly. He also attends underserved, underrepresented national conferences across the country, sharing employment opportunities at NASA and showing students that they can succeed.For example, at the American Indian Science and Engineering Society conference, he spoke about the importance of seeing someone who looks like them at NASA. He is half Native American and half Latinx, and he understands the significance of representation.

Skills in Dealing with Underserved Communities

Gonzales is highly skilled in communicating with underserved, underrepresented communities. He tests the waters with leadership and has an open-door policy with employees. He is also highly culturally aware and dresses, speaks, and acts in a way that is approachable to students.His ability to read body language is crucial. He pays close attention to the other person's body language to understand them better. Sometimes, body language tells you more than words. His wife even calls him a "people whisperer" because of his intuitive understanding of people.

Cultural Awareness and Its Importance

Cultural awareness means knowing your audience. Gonzales focuses on how the next generation will do things and tries to speak their language. He is respectful and listens carefully.For instance, when attending national conferences, he addresses elders first and asks for permission to speak to students. He also acknowledges the tribe associated with where he is speaking. When sending a team to a national conference, he ensures that they are culturally aware of the group's culture.

Hopes for Goddard's DEIA Programs

Gonzales hopes to continue creating a diverse pipeline of future employees with great ideas and solutions. He wants to provide a safe and welcoming environment for them to thrive.

Advice for Students

Gonzales advises students that the path to NASA is not linear. They need to find their own path and not be afraid to network and ask for opportunities. He shares the story of Christopher Gardner, whose life was portrayed in "The Pursuit of Happyness," and how Gardner's advice to focus on plan A has helped him.He also mentions José Hernández, the first Hispanic astronaut, and how Hernández's perseverance and determination have inspired him.

Personal Goals

Gonzales has several personal goals. He wants to see the Northern Lights and continue to travel. He has also lost 70 pounds and hopes to lose 20 more. He gave up meat for six months and now eats chicken and turkey. He exercises regularly and feels great. He also wants to continue attending concerts around the country.In conclusion, Edward Victor Gonzales is a true "people whisperer" at NASA Goddard. His work and dedication have made a significant impact on the organization and the people within it. Through his efforts, he is helping to create a more diverse, inclusive, and welcoming environment at NASA Goddard.