![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.nasa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/20250527-lydia-rodriguez-portrait-0005-high-1.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure>\u201cI\u2019ve had the opportunity to meet many different people at NASA who have become like family,\u201d Rodriguez said. \u201cI enjoy the culture and building relationships with people from all walks of life. I have learned so much from each person I\u2019ve met and worked alongside.\u201d <\/p>\n
Her path to NASA began in high school, when her parents encouraged her to apply for a part-time Office Education student position at Johnson. That early opportunity gave her a glimpse into the agency\u2019s culture \u2014 one that would inspire her to stay. <\/p>\n
<\/a><\/figure>Rodriguez takes pride in the practical support she has provided to her colleagues. She spent years in the Engineering Travel Office, helping team members plan their travel around the world. In 2013, the team was honored with a Group Achievement Award. <\/p>\n
\u201cI am proud of being confident and able to help others with their bookings and questions,\u201d Rodriguez said. <\/p>\n
Her NASA career has also taught her important lessons. Change has been a constant since she joined the center in 2008, and she has learned to adapt. <\/p>\n
One of the greatest challenges came after Hurricane Harvey in 2017, when her home was flooded. Rodriguez learned to ask for support and leaned on employee resources at Johnson. <\/p>\n
\u201cI\u2019ve learned that I am a resilient individual who takes on new challenges often,\u201d she said. \u201cWhat has helped me overcome obstacles is focusing on the mission and showing compassion toward people. We are all here for a reason and a purpose, and together we can accomplish greater things.\u201d <\/p>\n