Olga D. González-Sanabria facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Olga D. González-Sanabria
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Born | |
Nationality | Puerto Rican |
Education | University of Puerto Rico at Mayagüez (BS) University of Toledo (MS) |
Occupation | Scientist and inventor |
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González-Sanabria played an instrumental role in the power systems area with the development of the "Long Cycle-Life Nickel-Hydrogen Batteries". She is a member of the Ohio Women's Hall of Fame
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Olga D. González-Sanabria is a talented Puerto Rican scientist and inventor. She holds one of the highest positions for a Hispanic person at NASA's Glenn Research Center. She is also a proud member of the Ohio Women's Hall of Fame.
As the Director of Engineering and Technical Services, González-Sanabria helps plan and manage many important services at NASA Glenn. These include engineering, building things, testing, and managing facilities. She played a key role in creating "Long Cycle-Life Nickel-Hydrogen Batteries." These special batteries are super important for powering the International Space Station.
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Early Life and Education
Olga D. González-Sanabria was born and grew up in Patillas, Puerto Rico. She went to school there from a young age. After high school, she attended the University of Puerto Rico at Mayaguez. She earned her first degree, a Bachelor of Science, in Chemical Engineering.
She then continued her studies in Ohio. At the University of Toledo, she earned her Master of Science degree. This was also in Chemical Engineering.
Working at NASA
González-Sanabria started her career at NASA in 1979. She began as the chief of the Plans and Programs Office at the Glenn Research Center. She also worked as an executive officer for the Center's Director.
During her time at NASA, she held many leadership roles. She was the Director of the Systems Management Office. In this role, she helped make sure Glenn's business management system met high standards.
One of her biggest achievements was helping to develop the "Long Cycle-Life Nickel-Hydrogen Batteries." These batteries are crucial for the International Space Station's power system. For her amazing work, she received an R&D 100 Award. González-Sanabria has worked for NASA for over 30 years and continues to contribute today.
A Top Leader at NASA Glenn
In 2002, González-Sanabria reached a very high position at NASA. She was named director of the Systems Management Office at NASA's Glenn Research Center. This made her the highest-ranking Hispanic person at NASA Glenn. She also became a member of the U.S. government's Senior Executive Service.
Her job involves creating plans for the center. She helps decide how to use resources and direct programs. She also makes sure that NASA's policies are followed. She oversees Plum Brook Station, a large research facility. This station covers about 6,400 acres (26 square kilometers). Her team is the largest at Glenn. It includes about 650 engineers, technicians, pilots, and support staff.
González-Sanabria has a patent for her inventions. She has also written or co-written over 30 technical reports. These reports are for scientific journals and conferences.
Awards and Special Recognitions
On October 7, 2003, Olga D. González-Sanabria received a special honor. She was inducted into the Ohio Women's Hall of Fame. She was recognized as a "scientist, inventor, and executive." She joined other famous women like Gloria Steinem and Maya Lin.
NASA has given her many awards for her excellent work. These include the NASA Outstanding Leadership Medal in 2002. She also received the NASA Exceptional Service Medal in 1993. Other awards include the Women of Color in Technology Career Achievement Award in 2000. She also received an R&D 100 Award in 1988.
In 2007, HENAAC (Hispanic Engineer National Achievement Awards Conference) honored her. She was recognized for "Executive Excellence." HENAAC celebrates the best engineers and scientists in the nation.
Personal Life
Olga D. González-Sanabria lives in Strongsville, Ohio. She lives there with her husband, Rafael, and their two daughters. In her free time, she loves to help others. She has mentored many students, especially those from groups that are not always represented. She helps them find opportunities to gain valuable experience. She also guides professionals in their careers. She actively supports their growth and advancement.
See also
- List of Puerto Ricans
- Puerto Rican scientists and inventors
- List of Puerto Ricans in the United States Space Program
- University of Puerto Rico at Mayaguez people
- History of women in Puerto Rico