When people think of NASA, they often envision astronauts braving the final frontier. Yet, behind these missions lies the unsung heroism of teams like those at the Neutral Buoyancy Laboratory (NBL) at the Sonny Carter Training Facility in Houston, Texas. In October 2024, Isabel Hernandez, NASA’s HF Program Pathways intern and HF training director, along with Andre Karpowich, NASA’s HF Program co-chair, had the privilege of visiting the NBL. They spoke with 14 employees across different roles, as well as two senior leaders, including Dominic Del Rosso, NBL chief engineer, and Shane Pennington, NBL Operations Contract II Safety and Mission Assurance manager. Through these conversations, Hernandez and Karpowich uncovered a tapestry of collaboration, resilience and responsible leadership that define the laboratory's success.

Behind the Scenes: The NBL Formula for Success

A unique aspect of the NBL is how human factors is deeply embedded in its operations. Employees noted a strong culture where everyone—from the newest team member to the most seasoned professional—feels valued and integral to the mission. According to the article, “How Responsible Leadership Pays Off: Role of Organizational Identification and Organizational Culture for Creative Idea Sharing,” the strong safety culture noted by employees echoes research on responsible leadership. It highlights the importance of fostering organizational identification through ethical practices.

Standardized Training for Cohesion
A key element of the NBL’s operational excellence is its comprehensive training protocols. Employees, regardless of their contractor affiliation, undergo uniform training that emphasizes redundancy and preparedness. This approach ensures that any team member can step in when needed, creating a safety net of mutual competence.

The training program does more than equip employees for their respective roles. It also prepares them to contribute across different areas when required. This cross-functional competence highlights the value of a robust training regimen and ensures employees are not only adept in their primary responsibilities, but also capable of supporting others in critical moments.

Repetition, often cited as monotonous, is embraced at the NBL. It transforms critical procedures into muscle memory, enabling swift responses to unforeseen challenges. This deliberate focus on consistency aligns with findings stating structured organizational cultures amplify the impact of leadership on team performance, as noted in the article.

A Culture of Open Communication
Morning briefings at the NBL are more than administrative rituals, they are opportunities for employees to voice concerns, share observations and reinforce their commitment to safety. In conversation, Pennington highlighted that fostering clear communication allows the team to focus on priorities, addressing what truly matters while maintaining transparency.

The laboratory also encourages open dialogue, where employees feel their opinions are valued. According to the article, this approach reflects principles of responsible leadership, which research shows inspires employees to contribute ideas and put in genuine effort to accomplish their tasks each day.

Leadership in Action: Mentorship, Accountability and Appreciation

The culture of mentorship at the NBL is evident in how employees describe their ability to rely on each other to get the job done. Everyone is seen as more than capable, contributing to an environment of mutual respect and collaboration. Employees are not just experts in their primary areas but demonstrate a high level of competence across other domains, underscoring the importance of a well-rounded workforce and the value of comprehensive training.

Equally important is the sense of accountability that permeates the workforce. Employees take responsibility for their roles and the outcomes of their work, which fosters trust and reinforces the laboratory’s high standards. This accountability ensures that challenges are addressed constructively, contributing to the NBL’s success.

Del Rosso, who has worked at other NASA centers, noted that the NBL is a special place, emphasizing the unique teamwork that characterizes its operations. Both Del Rosso and Pennington demonstrate their commitment to fostering a supportive environment by encouraging candid discussions. They exemplify the principles of responsible leadership by showing appreciation for their workforce’s opinions and enabling employees to excel. This leadership approach mirrors findings that highlight the role of responsible leadership in promoting organizational identification and creative contributions, as noted in the article.

Balancing Challenges and Successes

While the NBL achieves impressive results, it is not without challenges. Though accidents are rare, they do occur. From conversations, it became clear that the laboratory’s greatness is not defined by perfection but by its response to challenges. The NBL’s ability to learn, grow and move forward underscores the attributes that make the laboratory and its people exceptional.

Five Ways To Emulate the NBL's Human Factors Success

1. Standardize Training Across Teams:
   Implement uniform training programs that ensure every team member is prepared to step into different roles if needed, promoting resilience and versatility.
2. Foster Open Communication:
   Create spaces, such as daily briefings or suggestion forums, where employees feel safe to share concerns and ideas.
3. Encourage Role Clarity:
   Clearly define responsibilities to prevent duplication of effort and ensure efficiency.
4. Recognize and Celebrate Achievements:
   Regularly acknowledge the contributions of all team members to maintain morale and reinforce their value to the organization.
5. Model Responsible Leadership:
   Lead by example by prioritizing ethical behavior and mentorship to inspire teams.

A Final Reflection

The NBL stands as a testament to what can be achieved when human factors are prioritized at the organizational level. The NBL’s commitment to responsible leadership, standardized training and open communication not only ensures mission success but also nurtures a workplace where every individual thrives. While challenges exist, the laboratory’s ability to adapt and grow in the face of adversity sets it apart as a model of resilience and excellence. The NBL serves as an example for organizations striving to balance operational excellence with the well-being of their people.