In a recent email sent to the workforce at NASA Armstrong on March 24, 2025, Center Director Brad Flick shared vital updates regarding Executive Order compliance and other key operational facets. Unlike many, Flick embraces transparency, emphasizing respect for his team by keeping them informed of significant developments. Here’s a breakdown of the critical information he conveyed.

Executive Order Compliance Efforts Underway

In his update, Flick expressed gratitude towards employees for their diligent work on reviewing NASA's contracts and grants. The agency is currently scrutinizing every active procurement to ensure alignment with the current administration's goals. This monumental task involves evaluating thousands of contracts within a remarkably tight timeline, and it appears the team is on schedule to meet this deadline.

Accomplishments Reporting Made Easy

Flick also touched on NASA's internal communication strategy regarding staff accomplishments. The Acting Administrator continues to submit a list of significant achievements to the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), and Flick follows suit for the Armstrong Center. Employees are encouraged to utilize a newly developed reporting tool, which aims to facilitate clearer interactions with supervisors. Though participation in this reporting is voluntary, it serves as an effective method for staff to document their yearly successes and provides a straightforward means to share accomplishments with higher management.

Navigating Reduction Plans Amidst Bureaucratic Changes

Perhaps one of the most pressing issues addressed in Flick’s email was the Agency Reduction in Force (RIF) and the Reduction Plan under the Executive Order titled “Implementing The President’s ‘Department of Government Efficiency' Workforce Optimization Initiative.” The preliminary report, known as “Phase 1,” was recently submitted to OPM and the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). While details remain under wraps, Flick indicated that the strategy focuses on reducing bureaucratic hurdles, flattening organizational structures, and sharpening NASA’s focus on its unique capabilities, paving the way for potential commercialization initiatives to encourage industry growth.

Critical Hiring Needs Submitted

In light of ongoing developments, NASA Armstrong has identified a short list of essential hiring needs. Although this list does not encompass every open position or those deemed critical by organizational leaders, it highlights the most urgent requirements. The agency anticipates feedback soon regarding the progression of these hiring requests.

Brad Flick concluded his email by encouraging the NASA team to have a productive week while reminding them to remain safe. As the landscape at NASA evolves under the current administration, it will be interesting to observe how these initiatives unfold and their impact on the workforce. Stay tuned for further updates as NASA continues to adapt and innovate in response to changing directives!