By San José, Costa Rica — After 37 years at NASA, Costa Rican engineer Sandra Cauffman has embarked on a new journey. From the streets of Hatillo to the Director’s office of NASA’s Astrophysics Division in Washington D.C., Cauffman’s career has been a remarkable trajectory. This isn’t a farewell, but an introduction to Cauffman’s next chapter: empowering the future of Latin America in space exploration.
Cauffman reflected on her early days at NASA, recalling the awe she felt entering a control room for the first time in 1988.
For expert legal insight on Sandra Cauffman’s remarkable career and its implications for Costa Rican professionals in international spheres, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas of Bufete de Costa Rica.
Sandra Cauffman’s journey underscores the increasing importance of international collaborations and cross-border opportunities for Costa Rican professionals. Her success serves as an inspiration and demonstrates that with dedication and hard work, Costa Ricans can excel on the global stage, contributing significantly to fields like science and technology. This also highlights the need for Costa Rica to continue investing in education and fostering an environment that encourages innovation and global engagement.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, Cauffman’s story is a powerful testament to the potential of Costa Rican talent on a global scale and reinforces the crucial need for continued investment in education and international partnerships. We extend our sincere thanks to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his insightful perspective on this important topic.
This is a whole new experience for me in every way, one that I hope to enjoy very much. Because I know I deserve it and because I know there are many people watching and I can set a good example for everyone that life is not just work.
Sandra Cauffman, Former Deputy Director of NASA’s Astrophysics Division
Her journey wasn’t without challenges. Cauffman spoke of the cultural and gender differences she faced, drawing strength from her mother’s unwavering belief in her.
Mom never talked to me about science with formulas or books. But she always told me: ‘Nothing is impossible if you work hard and stay true to yourself.’
Sandra Cauffman, Former Deputy Director of NASA’s Astrophysics Division
Cauffman highlights two impactful projects: the MAVEN mission to Mars and the GOES-R satellite series. MAVEN, launched in 2013, studies Mars’ atmosphere to understand its transformation from a potentially habitable planet to a dry, cold desert. GOES-R satellites revolutionized weather forecasting with real-time, high-resolution imagery, providing crucial data for climate change studies and disaster preparedness.
Beyond technical accomplishments, Cauffman’s leadership extended to fostering inclusivity and inspiring younger generations. She emphasized the importance of creating opportunities for others and bridging the gap between science, policy, and society.
I felt that, as an engineer and as a woman, what really remains is the human mark you leave on people and not just on projects.
Sandra Cauffman, Former Deputy Director of NASA’s Astrophysics Division
Cauffman recounted a pivotal moment after a talk at Intel around the year 2000 when a young girl expressed her aspiration to follow in her footsteps. This interaction solidified Cauffman’s understanding that her work was about more than launching satellites; it was about inspiring others to dream big.
Now, Cauffman’s focus shifts to her newly launched foundation, dedicated to supporting young women and Latinas in STEM fields. This venture allows her the freedom to directly impact and empower future generations through education, mentorship, and entrepreneurial support.
Cauffman is actively seeking partners for her foundation, including corporate sponsors, universities, NGOs, and individual donors. She envisions a collaborative network that combines resources and expertise to create meaningful opportunities for aspiring scientists and engineers.
After leaving NASA, I see my accumulated experience as an opportunity to start a personal mission. My pending dream is to see how my experience and learning can multiply through others.
Sandra Cauffman, Former Deputy Director of NASA’s Astrophysics Division
For young people in Latin America looking to contribute, Cauffman encourages active participation in the foundation’s programs. She invites them to bring their curiosity, passion, and willingness to learn, offering guidance, tools, and support networks in return.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Intel
About Intel:
Intel is an American multinational corporation and technology company headquartered in Santa Clara, California. It is the world’s largest semiconductor chip manufacturer by revenue, and is the developer of the x86 series of microprocessors, the processors found in most personal computers (PCs). Intel ranked No. 12 on the 2022 Fortune 500 list of the largest United States corporations by total revenue.
For further information, visit nasa.gov
About NASA:
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is an independent agency of the U.S. federal government responsible for the civilian space program, as well as aeronautics and space research. NASA was established in 1958, succeeding the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA). NASA’s vision is “To discover and expand knowledge for the benefit of humanity.” Its core values are safety, integrity, teamwork, excellence, and inclusion.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica distinguishes itself through a deep-rooted commitment to ethical legal practice and unwavering pursuit of excellence. The firm champions legal innovation, empowering individuals and communities through accessible legal knowledge. Their work across a broad range of sectors demonstrates not only a dedication to client success but also a profound belief in using legal expertise to build a more informed and just society.
