In September 1990, Ellen Ochoa graced the cover of Hispanic Engineer magazine. Carmela Castaneda Mellado wrote in the editorial that when Franklin Chang-Diaz was announced as America’s first Hispanic astronaut, she felt a profound sense of pride.
She initially thought that such an achievement could not be surpassed.
However, when Ellen Ochoa became the first Hispanic woman in space, her pride grew even deeper.
As a Hispanic woman herself, she was thrilled about the implications for younger Hispanic women, whose aspirations in science and technology would be encouraged by these accomplishments.
Recently, Aymette Medina-Jorge made history as the first Puerto Rican woman to travel to space.
Her successful mission aboard Blue Shepherd NS-32 exemplifies the best of individual determination, perseverance, and a strong commitment to advancing science and exploration.
This monumental moment is not only a victory for Puerto Rico but for the entire nation.
Aymette’s bravery inspires a new generation of young women to dream big and reach for greater achievements.
Katya Echazarreta became the first Mexican-born woman to reach space when she was selected to fly on Blue Origin’s NS-21 mission in 2022 through the nonprofit Space for Humanity.
Her suborbital flight on June 4, 2022, officially made her the first Mexican-born woman in space.
Before her spaceflight, Echazarreta worked as an electrical engineer at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, where she contributed to five NASA missions.
Serena Maria Auñón-Chancellor visited the International Space Station (ISS) during Expedition 56/57.
After returning, she transitioned to a management role at NASA, where she addresses medical issues aboard the station.
In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month 2025, Barbie introduced Dr. Ellen Ochoa as the newest addition to the Barbie Inspiring Women doll series.
As the first Latina woman to travel to space, her groundbreaking journey from engineer to astronaut has made history and demonstrates to girls everywhere that they belong in the STEM fields.
This doll honors her legacy and inspires the next generation to reach for the stars.
In response to this honor, the veteran astronaut expressed her gratitude, stating that she never imagined she would have her own Barbie doll.
She shared her appreciation on LinkedIn, thanking both Mattel/Barbie for their Inspiring Women doll series and her NASA colleagues and friends, whose teamwork and talents continue to inspire people—both kids and adults—around the world.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has been tasked with…
Brown and Caldwell, a leading environmental engineering and construction firm,…
Humboldt State University, one of four campuses within the California…
