Lieutenant to rocket launches
Alumna Julia Rothman credits her undergraduate studies with setting her on the path to a successful career in the space industry.
Julia is the Director of Launch Complex 1 at Rocket Lab and is responsible for all launch operations at Rocket Lab’s primary spaceport and the world’s first private orbital launch site. She started her career journey with Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington, studying a Bachelor of Science in Physics with Honours, before joining the US military. She then completed two further degrees before returning home to Aotearoa New Zealand.
“I wanted to work in space, specifically in space systems [a technical area of engineering as it relates to space travel]. I thought I would need a PhD, but I was super happy I was wrong. I did my undergraduate studies majoring in Maths and Physics, and then Physics Honours.”
After joining the US military, it was Julia’s background in physics that helped launch her space science career.
“I started working in space systems, and I became Lieutenant Rothman, Space Systems Physicist. I went through a training programme that stepped me through the different levels of being a space professional. They never would have taken me if I didn't have a background in physics or engineering.”
The space industry is no longer the domain of those with a PhD, Julia says. Just a Bachelor's degree makes students highly competitive.
“Having a STEM degree gives you a leg up into the industry, and having knowledge of space systems is incredibly advantageous. As is a passion for whatever space systems you're most interested in, and participation with local astronomy societies or rocket associations.
“But most importantly, a willingness to always investigate and be curious, a strong work ethic, the ability to self-manage and self-correct—and a love for and fascination with space. You can always spot the space nerds—and I say that with love.”
Julia says the best part of her job is seeing the positive impact her work has on the world.
“I never stop learning, and I’ve never stopped being excited to be able to touch the rocket. I get to perform; I get to see daily operations that are committed towards taking you to launch. Every day I get to launch things into space that are being used by you and me, such as satellites used for GPS systems and Earth observation. When I look at that, I can say ‘I have had a positive impact.’ I have left a tangible print on things, and I am exceptionally proud of that.”
For those considering space science, Julia encourages students to pursue their passion, regardless of their career stage.
“If you've always dreamed about a career in space, don't give up. It's not just for those who are starting their career, it's also mid-career professionals as well. There are a surprising number of opportunities and mentorships that are being offered through many different groups established in New Zealand, and there's a lot of space industry professionals looking to encourage and mentor the next generation.”
In 2023, Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington will become the first university in the country to offer an undergraduate major in Space Science. The major will give students a broad understanding of what it takes to get into space—from science and technology to the big issues behind space travel. Find out more here.