NASA has begun to slash workforce, resulting in the closure of key offices, including the Office of the Chief Scientist and the Office of Technology, Policy, and Strategy.
According to an internal email accessed by media, this decision aligns with an executive order by former President Donald Trump aimed at streamlining federal agencies. The restructuring is being carried out in collaboration with the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) and the Office of Management and Budget (OMB).
In an email to employees, acting administrator Janet Petro acknowledged the difficulty of these changes but described them as necessary to align with administration priorities while maintaining efficiency. She noted that all federal agencies were required to submit plans for workforce reductions and restructuring, and NASA is working closely with OPM to ensure compliance. While acknowledging the challenges, Petro emphasized that the process would be handled thoughtfully, balancing legal obligations with the goal of creating an effective and efficient agency.
As part of this phased reduction, NASA has begun workforce adjustments ahead of its broader reorganization. This includes closing the Office of Technology, Policy, and Strategy, the Office of the Chief Scientist, and the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility branch within the Office of Diversity and Equal Opportunity. These offices have played a crucial role in shaping NASA’s policies and scientific initiatives, making their closure a significant structural shift.
Petro recognized the contributions of affected employees, expressing gratitude for their efforts in advancing NASA’s mission. She assured them of the agency’s commitment to providing support during the transition. While final details of the restructuring are still being determined, she emphasized NASA’s commitment to transparency throughout the process. Affected employees are encouraged to utilize available support resources, including the Employee Assistance Program.
Acknowledging the uncertainty of the transition, Petro urged employees to support one another and remain resilient. She reaffirmed NASA’s dedication to its core mission and workforce, emphasizing that despite these challenges, the agency’s strength lies in its shared commitment to exploration and innovation.
