Susan Althoff Gorton, a project manager for NASA's Revolutionary Vertical Lift Technology project at NASA Langley, is a 2018 nominee for the Women of Color STEM Outstanding Technical Contribution in Government Award.

She has coordinated a project at three separate NASA Centers for the past 12 years.

Althoff Gorton is recognized for her outstanding research in support of making helicopters and other vehicles safer, quieter and more efficient.

Under her leadership, the project has advanced technologies in aerodynamics, acoustics, engines, transmissions, design methods, and test techniques while working in partnership with federal agencies, industry, universities and international research organizations.

Asked how she got into her line of work, Althoff Gorton said during college she worked for a distinguished aeronautics professor at the University of Illinois.

"One day, Professor Ormsbee asked me what area of engineering I planned to focus on," she continued. "When I answered Aerodynamics, he said 'Aerodynamicists are a dime a dozen. If you want to make a living, you’re going to have to be really good at it.' So, I set out to be the best aerodynamicist I could be. Today I’m proud to work for NASA, where I make a living doing what I’m passionate about, and I’m honored to be recognized for it."

Althoff Gorton said it is important for women to realize that yes, they are women, but they are also an individual.

"They should be who they are and be proud of that," she told Women of Color magazine. "That means if STEM is who you are, claim that and work with it to find your place where you are happy with what you are doing.”

Althoff Gorton has a Helicopter private pilot's license.