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From physics to jet engines: NASA engineer Jamesa Stokes reflects on her materials science journey at Penn State
For first-year MatSE student Tessa Ternullo the chance to virtually interview Jamesa Stokes, Ph.D.—a NASA engineer and Penn State alumna—was more than just an interview; it was an inspiring glimpse into a future of possibilities. Ternullo had the opportunity to ask questions, hear career insights, and learn directly from someone who, not too long ago, stood where she now stands. Their conversation revealed not only the depth of Stokes’ work in extreme-environment materials, but also the power of mentorship, curiosity, and perseverance.
When Stokes began her academic journey at Auburn University she was a studio arts major with a passion for science. It was her passion that eventually led her to change majors and study physics as an undergraduate. While she ultimately shifted her academic focus, her love of art remains a meaningful part of her life, now something she enjoys purely for the joy it brings.
“When I became a physics major, I didn’t necessarily know what I wanted my career to be,” said Stokes. “But I thought physics would be a good foundation—and from there, materials science really clicked with me.”
The interdisciplinary nature of materials science drew her in. “I like that materials science is everywhere. You can focus on chemistry, mechanical properties, physics, and engineering. It’s all interconnected, and that’s what makes it exciting.”
After earning her undergraduate degree in 2014, Stokes came to Penn State for graduate school, where she worked under the guidance of Douglas Wolfe, professor of materials science and engineering who now also serves as associate vice president for research and director of strategic initiatives in the Office of the Senior Vice President for Research. She earned her doctorate in materials science and engineering in 2019.
Her research focused on thermal and environmental barrier coatings (TEBCs) for commercial jet engines—critical materials that protect turbine components from high temperatures and foreign particle damage during flight. Specifically, she studied how materials interact with sand and dust ingested into jet engines; a problem especially relevant for aircraft operating in desert environments.
“Imagine an engine running at over 1,000 degrees Celsius, and then ingesting sand,” said Stokes. “That sand melts, hits the coating, and can cause serious degradation. My research looked at how to design materials that could withstand that kind of harsh interaction.”
Career Advice
Ternullo asked Stokes how she navigated the transition from physics to a highly applied engineering field. Stokes shared that mentorship played a critical role in her development. “Dr. Wolfe gave me the space to explore my ideas and grow. Having that mentorship and support was everything.”
As their conversation unfolded, Stokes also reflected on the importance of curiosity and adaptability in shaping her career. “I didn’t come into graduate school knowing exactly what I wanted to do long-term,” she said. “But I kept following what interested me and tried to stay open to new opportunities.”
Stokes’ advice to undergraduates? Explore widely and don’t be afraid to pivot. “Get involved in research early. Even if it’s not exactly what you think you want to do, it can open doors,” she said. “Sometimes you find your passion by trying something unexpected.”
Another valuable lesson Stokes learned in graduate school was the importance of clearly communicating science—not just to fellow researchers, but also to non-scientific audiences. “One thing I’ve learned is how important it is to communicate your work to different audiences,” Stokes noted. “Whether you’re talking to other scientists, engineers, or the public, it’s important to make your work accessible and relatable.”
For Ternullo, the conversation offered not just career insights, but encouragement. “It’s so reassuring to hear that you didn’t have it all figured out at the beginning,” they said. “As someone just starting out, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.”
Stokes offered Ternullo reassurance. “You don’t have to have everything planned out. Just take the next step and stay curious. Things will come together with time and effort.”
Now working as a materials research engineer at NASA Glenn Research Center, Stokes applies her expertise in extreme-environment materials to challenges that range from aeronautics to space exploration. She credits her time at Penn State with giving her the technical foundation and confidence to pursue high-impact work. “Penn State gave me the research experience and mentorship that helped me believe I could work on these big problems.”
As the conversation wrapped up, Stokes left students with a final piece of advice: “Don’t underestimate yourself. You belong here. Keep going, even when it’s hard—you’re learning and growing every step of the way.”
Editor’s note: Student/alumni interviews are part of a broader initiative by the department to foster student-alumni connections and highlight the diverse paths a degree in materials science can lead to. Through these exchanges, students gain not only technical perspective, but a glimpse into the lives of engineers and scientists who started where they are today.