Having grown up in the Houston suburbs of Pearland and Friendswood, Nathan Tat ’18 ’19 recently uncovered a letter he wrote to himself in seventh grade, which mentioned his dream college: Rice University. Fulfilling his own prophecy, the twice-Rice graduate majored in economics with a minor in business as an undergraduate and went on to receive a Master of Science in space studies.
“During my first semester at Rice, I took Introduction to Economics,” said Tat. “Then I started taking business classes, and I eventually thought economics would be an interesting major. Professors like Dr. Amelie Carlton made economics something that was very tangible, realistic, and engaging, which still inspires me in my work.”
As a senior, Tat deliberated between entering the workforce upon graduation or continuing his studies in graduate school. Having grown up “down the street from NASA,” Tat was drawn to the Space Studies master’s program in the Wiess School of Natural Sciences. While he was completing an internship at NASA, Tat was pleased to learn about the various opportunities available for people with a variety of backgrounds, including economics.
Tat, now an exploration science integrator and innovation strategist at NASA, supports the Artemis missions.
“My goal involves bringing stakeholders together who are interested in science and also helping boost the space sector in Houston through innovation,” said Tat.
Prior to his current role, Tat worked in finance and business operations at NASA. Reflective of his diverse background, Tat is open to new possibilities within the sector and beyond.
“I’m also very interested in space policy and economics,” said Tat. “I would love to help grow the social sciences and business aspects of space.”
A dedicated member of his community, Tat serves as a community co-lead for the organization Taking Our Best Shot. Launched during the COVID-19 pandemic, the initiative promotes public health, community outreach, and STEM engagement. Activities include hosting health seminars, infographic challenges, health fairs, and K-12 mentoring sessions.
Tat’s involvement with Taking Our Best Shot is made more meaningful because it is a family affair. His sister Vivian is also a co-lead, and his sister Candise ’20 provides public health expertise. “We all try to give back to the community,” said Tat.
His deep commitment to the community is what led to Tat being named a finalist for the Galveston County Daily News Citizen of the Year Award. The ceremony, which was held in May, celebrated the people and organizations who make a positive impact on Galveston County.
“When I found out I was nominated, I was so honored,” said Tat. “Getting interviewed in the same library I visited while growing up and talking about our community was such a powerful experience. It was a full circle moment.”
In reflecting upon what he loves most about where he lives, Tat discussed Galveston’s rich history and community.
“I think it's so fascinating how, within the span of less than 200 years, we have evolved into a community with so many different thriving sectors,” said Tat. “The fishing industry has been a backbone for many years, tourists are coming to explore the Island, innovative medical research is taking place with leading institutions, and of course there’s the exciting aerospace industry.”
Tat also takes pride in the value placed on education.
“Growing up here, I had so many amazing teachers and friends who really pushed one another to succeed,” said Tat. “The sense of friendship and kinship within the community is something that's really special about living in the Galveston County area.”
In addition to the strong values instilled by his parents, Tat’s time as a Rice University Social Sciences student helped shape his values as a community leader.
“Being a Rice Social Sciences student helped me understand that sometimes paths can evolve and change over time,” said Tat. “And I learned how important it is to bring people from different academic backgrounds together for a wide range of perspectives.”
Tat encourages current and future Owls to take advantage of the many resources available at Rice, including the Center for Career Development. He also recommends attending conferences and workshops.
“There are opportunities at these conferences for students and professionals at all stages to connect, learn from each other, and exchange ideas,” said Tat.
As someone with a strong sense of purpose, community is the ultimate driving force behind Tat’s work.
“It may seem like sending four people to space is an easy feat, and the same goes for what we do with Taking Our Best Shot,” said Tat. “In reality, there are many stakeholders involved, collaborating to build a healthier and stronger community together.”