NASA Careers with a Disability: Engineering a More Inclusive Future

What if your greatest perceived limitation became your biggest strength?

In this powerful short, Dana Bolles, a trailblazing engineer at NASA, shares how she turned what many saw as a disadvantage into a driving force. Growing up relying on prosthetics and a wheelchair, Dana dreamed of becoming an astronaut. While that dream evolved, her determination never wavered — and it led her to a meaningful career in engineering at NASA.

Too often, people assume a physical disability means a lack of intelligence or ability. Dana’s story flips that narrative. With resilience, creativity, and purpose, she’s not only breaking barriers — she’s helping build a more inclusive future in aerospace.

Meet the women changing the face of STEM! The IF/THEN® Collection, now proudly housed at the Museum of Science, Boston, is the world’s largest free digital library showcasing real, contemporary women in science, technology, engineering, and math. From groundbreaking researchers to space explorers, these role models prove that if she can see it, she can be it. Explore videos featuring behind-the-scenes interviews, and hands-on STEM inspiration for students, educators, and lifelong learners.

Dana Bolles relied on equipment to be independent (from the age of 2 years) and it inspired her to become and engineer and work for a space agency. She works for the Science Engagement and Partnerships Division at headquarters in science communications for the search beyond earth. With a visible disability, Dana wants break the stigma and encourage people to not let others bring you down and to believe in yourself. She brings a unique perspective, surpassing expectations on her path.. Dana also volunteers for employee resource groups (ERGs) for women, people with disabilities, and LGBT communities.

See the full If/Then Collection.