Faces of Astrion: Dr. Lisa Watson-Morgan

The Faces of Astrion series celebrates the talented, innovative and dedicated individuals who drive our mission forward. Through these spotlights, we’re highlighting the experience, insights and passion of team members who make real impact every day. In celebration of Space Week, we’re featuring one of our space leaders, Lisa Watson-Morgan.

Q: Tell us a bit about your role at Astrion.
Lisa: I lead the civilian space operating unit, which manages 28 NASA contracts—9 of which Astrion is the prime. My focus is ensuring we deliver on commitments while growing the civilian space business unit. Culture is key to success, so I work to align the team around shared goals while fostering an environment that rewards hard work and innovation. The NASA work itself spans test, evaluation, engineering, safety, launch, and purchasing, so it’s critical to ensure our business unit meets a dynamic environment while always looking forward to new opportunities to exceed customer expectations and support both NASA and Astrion’s success.

Q: What has been your favorite project at Astrion?
Lisa: Supporting the team on Protected Tactical SATCOM – Global( PTS-G) has been a standout. The project required a quick turnaround on requests and a sprint to a government decision gate, which made it fast-paced and exciting. Being able to support the team through that process was incredibly rewarding.

Q: What’s interesting about you—professionally and personally?
Lisa: Professionally, I spent 36 years at NASA, supporting projects from pre-phase A through operations and closeout. I ended my NASA career as a program manager for the Artemis Human Landing System, helping return American astronauts to the Moon using fixed-price contracts. I love building strong teams and frequently engage with team members to learn and grow together. Personally, I enjoy jogging, trail running, hiking, and being outdoors, and I have three children who are all in college now—two undergrad freshmen at Auburn and Alabama, and one pursuing a master’s at Colorado State.

Q: What does the future of space look like?
Lisa: The future of space is bright. With this administration’s focus on Moon and Mars exploration, NASA will continue to need test and engineering services, regardless of direction. Getting to the Moon before China is a critical milestone and achieving it will take alignment across the entire space industry. Science remains essential, with its inherent unpredictability in what we’ll discover, yet human exploration and Earth-benefit applications will anchor our strategic priorities. Astrion has the experience and expertise to help NASA navigate this dynamic era successfully.

Q: What motivates you in life?
Lisa: I’m motivated by learning, completing projects, and taking on challenges. I enjoy exploring new ways of operating and improving processes. I believe there are many correct ways to approach a task, and experimenting is a great way to learn and grow.

Q: What advice would you give your younger self?
Lisa: I’d tell myself to build my network sooner and trust myself more. Also, start running earlier. I’d probably have been faster if I didn’t wait until my 50s to pursue a personal record!

Q: What does “Results with Impact” mean to you?
Lisa: It means doing meaningful work, understanding why you’re doing it, and knowing who benefits. It’s about putting your best into each day and being a strong, collaborative team player.

Q: What has been the best invention and why?
Lisa: Fire! You can use it to cauterize, produce energy, stay warm, and cook food. On a more modern note, the computer is amazing for the way it drives the information and digital era, connecting people and systems across the globe.