Jordan Evans leads some of humanity’s most ambitious efforts to explore the universe. As Director for Flight Projects at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, he oversees a diverse portfolio of missions ranging from future lunar exploration to the twin Voyager spacecraft, the most distant human-made objects ever created. Previously, he served as Project Manager for NASA’s $5 billion flagship Europa Clipper mission, leading the development and launch of the largest planetary spacecraft ever built.

Over a career spanning more than three decades, Evans has led teams responsible for some of NASA’s most complex scientific and engineering endeavors, from instruments aboard the Hubble Space Telescope and gravitational-wave observatories to robotic explorers such as the Curiosity rover on Mars. His work has helped advance humanity’s exploration of the solar system while pushing the boundaries of science and engineering. Known for his ability to lead organizations through extraordinary technical and programmatic challenges, Evans is frequently called upon to tackle mission-critical issues and guide high-stakes investigations. Combining deep technical expertise, strategic leadership, and a practical sense of humor, he has earned a reputation for balancing innovation, risk, and mission success. For his contributions to NASA’s Mars Science Laboratory mission, which delivered the Curiosity rover to Mars, he received NASA’s Outstanding Leadership Medal, one of the agency’s highest honors.

Prior to Europa Clipper, Evans led JPL’s engineering and science organizations, guiding thousands of scientists and engineers across the full spectrum of research, technology development, and flight projects, including the Perseverance rover and the Ingenuity Mars helicopter.

A sought-after speaker, Evans has shared insights on leadership, innovation, risk management, and exploration with audiences around the world, including TEDx and numerous national and international conferences. He also works with the National Academy of Sciences’ Science & Entertainment Exchange, advising major motion picture and television productions on science and space exploration.

Outside the laboratory, Evans is an accomplished musician who performs regularly with jazz ensembles and big bands throughout Southern California. And on occasion, he can even be found performing with a Rush tribute band.