Nzinga Tull
What is your connection to Georgia Tech?
My first connection to Georgia Tech came through my father, Knox W. Tull, Jr., who finished his master's in civil engineering in 1972. I attended as a dual degree student from Spelman College in the Atlanta University Center, completing a B.S. in mechanical engineering in 1998.
What is your current professional role? Please list a few notable career accomplishments.
I am currently a systems engineer with over 25 years of experience in aerospace systems engineering at Jackson and Tull, a family-owned and operated engineering company. As an Anomaly Response Manager and Systems Management professional with the Mission Operations Team of the Hubble Space Telescope at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, MD, I support normal mission planning and coordinate technical investigation, resolution, and recovery from problems that disrupt Hubble flight operations. Due to the role I played in recovering Hubble operations in Summer 2021 after a five-week disruption caused by a payload computer malfunction, I was featured in numerous technical and popular publications in the U.S. and abroad, including a profile in the Washington City Paper “The People Issue 2021.”
Why are you passionate about WoW?
It is always affirming and encouraging to connect with other women STEM professionals to network, pool resources, and challenge and support each other and the next generation. As a graduate of a women’s college, I know firsthand that our connection to other ambitious, successful women is our most powerful resource and WoW is a manifestation of that.
What are your hobbies and passions?
Other than Hubble, one of my greatest passions is traditional West African dance. Introduced to the art form as a little girl, I have been performing professionally for twenty-five years. I am a senior dance company member with KanKouran West African Dance Company, which is based in DC and tours throughout the United States. I am also a strong advocate for strong neighborhood-based public schools and serve as Board Chair of Teaching for Change, an education and social justice non-profit organization.
What is your favorite quote?
"Strong people don't need strong leaders." -Ella Baker
What advice would you give a young female engineer?
Stay curious! Learn to appreciate what truly intrigues you, even if it's quirky or unpopular. Your curiosity is important to your creativity which will keep you fulfilled and set you apart, no matter your career circumstances. And don't forget to find and cultivate a professional community so that you can help each other grow.