Florida State University and FAMU-FSU College of Engineering alumnus Jeremy Graeber in front of the NASA launch facility where he works as assistant launch director at Kennedy Space Center. (Courtesy Graeber)
FAMU-FSU engineering alumnus Jeremy Graeber leads NASA’s historic Artemis missions, showcasing how FSU engineering education launches extraordinary careers in space exploration.
Jeremy Graeber, a 1996 FAMU-FSU College of Engineering graduate, is the assistant launch director at Kennedy Space Center, where he helps lead NASA’s historic Artemis missions. His journey from mechanical engineering student to space exploration pioneer showcases how FSU engineering education launches extraordinary careers.
“Being part of a successful launch is such an emotional experience that it is hard to describe,” Graeber said. “First, it’s heartfelt pride and true respect for the launch team I get to be a part of. I would add that witnessing a launch involves a sensory experience that goes beyond just watching; you actually feel the launch through sound, vibration and sight.”
From College Crossroads to NASA Career Path
Graeber’s academic journey began at the University of South Carolina, where he initially balanced engineering studies with collegiate soccer. He transferred to Florida State University at a pivotal moment, following his sister Debbie, who studied civil engineering there.
“I had several friends who were going to there, so I decided FSU was the right place for me,” Graeber explained. “This move allowed me to focus on my degree and eased my parents’ financial burden.”
What began as a practical decision evolved into a generational connection—his wife, whom he met through mutual friends at an FSU football game, and their children have all embraced the Seminole tradition.
Early Inspiration Takes Flight
Graeber’s fascination with space exploration sparked during childhood, thanks to supportive parents who exposed him to formative experiences.
“One of the most crucial moments happened when I was six. A new Space Shuttle was transported across the country on a 747 and stopped overnight at the Denver airport,” he recalled. “My family and I walked up to the fence and saw the Shuttle parked on the runway. I remember my dad saying, ‘That’s America’s next spaceship,’ and from that moment on, I was hooked.”
Engineering Education as Foundation
While reflecting on his time at the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Graeber acknowledged challenges and invaluable learning experiences.
“I will be the first to admit that I was not the best student and struggled greatly with self-doubt and subjects like Engineering Math and Differential Equations!” he said. “I am thankful for my great teachers for my Thermodynamics and Heat Transfer courses. I refer to them as ‘teachers’ rather than ‘professors,’ because I learned the basics of these disciplines and how they are applied in the real world in both classes.”
This practical engineering foundation became instrumental in his career trajectory from United Space Alliance contractor to his current leadership position with NASA’s Exploration Ground Systems Program.
Advancing Aerospace Education
Graeber enthusiastically supports the college’s new aerospace engineering program.
“I am very excited to hear that an Aerospace Engineering program will be established at the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering. If this degree had been available in my day, I would have been the first to sign up,” he said. “This new Aerospace program will allow students to take essential classes that will prepare them for opportunities in the space industry with NASA and other commercial providers.”
Keys to Success: Teamwork and Leadership
Graeber emphasizes collaborative skills for current engineering students with space industry aspirations.
“I often emphasize the importance of teamwork when speaking with college students. My main advice is to seek every opportunity to be part of a team,” he advised. “Additionally, take the chance to be a team leader at some point. It can be difficult for some, but stepping up to the challenge can be rewarding.”
The Next Frontier: Artemis and Beyond
Looking ahead, Graeber is focused on NASA’s next milestone—the Artemis II mission planned for early 2026, which will send astronauts around the Moon for the first time in over 50 years.
“The Artemis missions represent a significant leap for humanity,” Graeber noted. “I’m excited about how our ongoing efforts will pave the way for future exploration, including crewed missions to Mars. I look forward to continuing my work at NASA, contributing to these historic endeavors and inspiring the next generation of engineers and astronauts.”
Editor’s Note: This article was edited with a custom prompt for Claude 3.7 Sonnet, an AI assistant created by Anthropic. The AI improved clarity, structure and readability while preserving the original reporting and factual content. All information and viewpoints remain those of the author and publication. This disclosure is part of our commitment to transparency in our editorial process. Last edited: April 16, 2025.
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