Each year, CEO Joy Colucci recognizes employees who have delivered exceptional service and solutions to Metis customers. The Helios Award celebrates employees emerging as leaders in their field of expertise. Metis awardees for 2025 are:
John Scott: Titan of Leadership
John Scott is recognized for his outstanding contributions as a software engineer and site lead for Metis at Wallops Flight Facility supporting NASA Near-Earth Network and Space Network. Since May 2022, John has expertly navigated critical transitions, led the software development team, and ensured the success of multiple projects. His rapid development of leadership skills and his innovative “Session with SMEs” mentoring program have fostered growth and excellence within the team. John’s dedication has been pivotal in supporting the Artemis launch and the continued operations of the Near-Earth Network.
Qiang (Shawn) Li: Titan of Innovation
As an Amazon Web Services solutions architect, Shawn applies his expertise to building and deployment of groundbreaking cloud solutions for NASA aeronautics programs. He implemented a fully automated remote testing scheme for Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UASs) Service Suppliers (USSs) that enabled users to remotely configure, run, and validate their service environments using a simple email interface, and other innovations reduced customer’s daily AWS costs by 60%. These solutions allow NASA to realize AWS cost savings while increasing ability to seamlessly collaborate with external partners.
Jack Lippincott: Titan of Quality
Demonstrating unparalleled expertise and unwavering commitment to quality, Jack Lippincott played a pivotal role in resolving two mission-critical anomalies on the Voyager 1 spacecraft in 2024, safeguarding its historic scientific mission. His groundbreaking leadership in pioneering the first-ever 6-antenna array within the Deep Space Network set new benchmarks for communication excellence, innovation, and the delivery of the highest quality support to NASA’s deep space operations. His contributions are monumental in supporting the Voyagers, the DSN, and NASA’s ambitious space exploration endeavors.
Malachi Mooney-Rivkin: Helios Award
Malachi provided exceptional technical expertise and unwavering dedication to the TechEdSat project on the PESS II contract. His innovative contributions, particularly in the mechanical design and fabrication of critical components for the TES-19 reentry experiment, have been pivotal to the project’s success. Malachi’s leadership in developing the radiation experiment and the sun angle sensor, as well as his mentoring of junior engineers, exemplifies his commitment to excellence and innovation. His efforts continue to push the boundaries of small satellite technology and inspire his peers.