Thank You to Steve Hipskind, Division Chief of Earth Sciences for 27 Years of Service.

Steve Hipskind, Division Chief of Earth Sciences at NASA Ames Research Center, is retiring on July 31, 2015, after 27 years of service. Steve became the Division Chief in 2005 and has been instrumental in the Division’s success and growth over the last 10 years.  A valued collaborator and colleague to BAER Institute, Steve oversaw and championed the work of many BAER Institute staff, especially young scientists.

Steve began his career at NASA Ames as a contractor in 1980, specializing in atmospheric studies with several scientific publications to his credit.  Together with other NASA colleagues, he developed the data exchange standards and procedures which have been used by NASA and several European groups since that time.  Steve continued his work in atmospheric research for 20 years, focusing on the management of airborne field studies, critical to NASA’s Earth Science Mission.  He managed large airborne campaigns for 14 years.  Steve contributed to the success of many of NASA’s international airborne field deployments and provided innovative leadership in networking and data exchange, facilitating high scientific productivity during these missions. As Division Chief, he supported scientists in establishing Ames’ unique role in climate change research and fostered and strengthened fruitful scientific partnerships with California state agencies, other federal agencies such as USGS, the UC System, the Cal State System, and private entities throughout Silicon Valley.  Steve was a strong proponent for the building of Sustainability Base (Bldg. 232) at NASA Ames, the first zero energy federal building, and for making Bldg. 232 the home for many of the Earth Science Division team.

Congratulations and thank you Steve for your many contributions to Earth Science at NASA Ames over the years. BAER wishes you continued success in your future endeavors!