Meet STEM Innovator Dr. Aprille Ericsson, An Actual Rocket Scientist

🛰️ Who is Dr. Aprille Ericcson?
Dr. Aprille Ericsson is a pioneering aerospace engineer (literally a rocket scientist!!!) who has worked on NASA satellite missions to study the Earth and outer space. She has also led projects in robotics, aerodynamics, and space technology development.

📚 Her Achievements:
✅ First Black woman to receive a Ph.D. in Engineering at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center
✅ Worked on satellites that help us understand climate change and space conditions
✅ Advocate for STEM education and inspiring young people—especially girls—to pursue science and engineering

Dr. Aprill Ericcson spent 30+ years at NASA and currently advises students at MIT and Howard University.

🚀 Why is she important?
Dr. Ericsson’s work helps us explore space, improve satellite technology, and inspire future scientists and engineers. She worked as an aerospace engineer for over twenty-seven years at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC).

According to TheKultureKids.com, “When she started working at GSFC, her job title was altitude control systems analyst. In this job, Dr. Ericsson-Jackson made sure the satellites that orbit or move along a curved path around the earth, follow the correct trajectory or path. She has dedicated her career to breaking barriers and making space science more accessible to all.”

She currently advises students at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and Howard University. Ericsson has taught at Howard University and Bowie State University, leading courses in mathematics and mechanical engineering.

Learn more about this STEM innovator.

Women Pioneers in STEM: Dr. Aprille Erickson

Aprille Ericsson, NASA Instrument Manager