Artara Johnson, Agreements and Partnership Coordinator/Lead Physical Scientist

Tell us about yourself and your work at NOS.

My name is Artara (Tara) Johnson, and I am a lead physical scientist with NOS’s Center for Operational Oceanographic Products and Services, or CO-OPS. I serve as an agreements and partnership coordinator and specialize in writing legally binding agreements with federal, state, local, and academic partners to collect and share water level, tidal current, and meteorological data. These efforts support safe navigation, coastal storm awareness and preparedness, coastal monitoring, and resilience efforts. I also help foster employee professional development and coordinate student and academic engagement to advance the next generation’s awareness of and participation in NOAA science, stewardship, and careers.

How did you get to where you are now in your career?

I was selected to participate in an internship with CO-OPS while studying mechanical engineering at Prince George’s Community College. For my first assignment, I was tasked with helping three engineers build a 50-foot structure to test wave sensors, which, to me, was a dream come true! This opportunity allowed me to apply the knowledge and skills I had been learning in school in real time, helping me confirm that I had found my professional home.

During my studies, I also joined NOAA’s Student Temporary Employment Program, a program similar to the current Pathways Internship Program, that provided students the opportunity to gain experience in federal service. Afterwards, I joined CO-OPS’s Engineering Division as a contractor, where I managed the observing system requirements for measuring and monitoring changes in water level, current, and meteorological parameters in coastal waterways to support navigation. Ten years later, I became the lead physical scientist and team lead for the Engineering Division’s Operational and Engineering Team. The skills and experience I gained in that position provided a strong foundation for my current role as an agreements and partnership coordinator.

What about your work has felt especially exciting or rewarding?

Throughout my career, I’ve had the opportunity to contribute to a wide range of efforts and collaborate with colleagues from many different backgrounds. I’ve built infrastructure, installed and serviced oceanographic and meteorological monitoring systems, and traveled to states and territories that I had never thought to visit. I’ve presented at scientific, professional, and organization forums and have mentored early-career professionals and students, even creating fun STEM-focused activities for K-12 students. I’ve faced my fear of large bodies of water while hanging off the side of an elevated pier to remove an acoustic well (a structure used at water level stations to protect sensors from rough waves). I’m even pictured in the Wikipedia article on leveling! My various roles throughout my career have allowed me to do some really exciting things!

If you could suggest one class or experience that inspired you in your career path, what would it be?

My summer internship with NOAA is truly what inspired my career path. Before that, I was convinced that I would design and build roller coasters. But during my internship, I witnessed and came to understand the importance of engineering in the ocean environment. Prior to this experience, I did not know this career path existed, so my internship changed everything for me.

What would you recommend to those who want to begin a career in your field?

As a math lover, I will always suggest taking as many math classes as possible. Math is the universal language, and it provides the foundation for logical and strategic thinking. Once you gain the confidence to solve math problems, you have the confidence to solve any problem that arises.