Our Meet the Team series focuses on what we value most, our employees. Meagan is just one of 450 + employees that have the fire to fly.

Meet Meagan Roth, Sr. Manager Launch and Test Operations

What is your role at Firefly? I work in both Texas and California. My team handles all testing of rocket components – from developmental testing on in-house designs, simulation testing to anchor analytical models, engine acceptance testing, stage testing, and all the way to the rocket launch itself. We are responsible for the operation of the rocket, test stand, pad, and other components to ensure the rocket is successful.

How did you get the gig? I worked at SpaceX through some amazing times on Falcon 9, but as we turned the corner from R&D to a production group, I was seeking the next challenge. Firefly has given me the opportunity to participate in so many aspects of rockets and I’m grateful for the opportunity.

What inspired you to start a career in Space? Honestly – sheer, dumb luck. I never thought I was “good enough” for space. A recruiter from SpaceX approached me on LinkedIn, and I thought “why not”. The rest is history.

What do you love about your job? I love the performative nature of what I do and the need for quick and responsive thinking. We prepare, practice, and build up to one moment on the grand stage, be it stage testing or launch. Especially with the launch, there are so many people, so much money, and pressure to execute flawlessly. That’s a rush for me.

What is the most challenging thing about your job? If my team does their job properly, no one ever realizes we are doing our job. Staying ahead of the components, be it valves, engines or stages, is very challenging. We have to execute all of our preparation, builds, checkouts and tests before we have the hardware to make tests as smooth as possible. This behind-the-scenes preparation really challenges time management skills as well as the ability to mitigate risk.   

What message would you give to others thinking about a career in Space? You miss all the shots you don’t take. If this is something that interests you, then apply. Apply, apply, apply. In our industry, especially being not just a rocket company, but a start-up, attitude is half the battle. Being a dedicated, driven team player can carry you far. You can learn about rockets, it’s much harder to learn dedication and passion.

What are your passions outside of work?  Unsurprisingly, given my passion for launch, rockets, and fire, my hobbies tend to trend towards “intense” pursuits. I rock climb, compete in bodybuilding contests, and am prepping for my second Ultra Marathon. I also enjoy knitting and baking in my downtime. 

Where did you study? I went to MIT.