A game-changer, according to Webster’s Dictionary, is a newly introduced element or factor that changes an existing situation or activity in a significant way. For Kailey Rettmann, receiving the Science, Mathematics, and Research for Transformation (SMART) Scholarship-for-Service Program has been just that. The award provides full tuition, stipends, internships and a guaranteed job with the Department of Defense after graduation. Combined with her decision to study in Texas A&M University’s Department of Oceanography, the scholarship has reshaped Rettmann's academic and professional future, setting her on a promising path in oceanography.
The first in her family to attend Texas A&M, Rettmann was drawn to the university’s oceanography program for its unique combination of large-university resources and the personalized attention of a smaller-sized department.
“The Oceanography Department at Texas A&M offers a multitude of possibilities for students,” Rettmann said. “Being in the program, I feel important and that I’m making a difference.”
Her passion for oceanography began early in her Aggieland academic career. By her second semester, she started working as an undergraduate assistant in Dr. Shari Yvon-Lewis’ chemical oceanography lab, analyzing trace gases in Galveston Bay and the Gulf of Mexico.
“I came into the position with limited knowledge of oceanic trace gases or the equipment and techniques used to analyze the data,” Rettmann said. “The experience has been invaluable, and Dr. Yvon-Lewis has been a wonderful mentor and huge support.”
Yvon-Lewis, who serves as the department head for Oceanography, has high praise for Rettmann’s abilities. She notes their productive weekly research meetings, Rettmann’s strong organizational skills and eagerness to learn.
“Kailey is wonderful to work with,” Yvon-Lewis said. “I enjoy our weekly research meetings discussing her project’s data. She’s engaged, organized and quick to learn. She has a great future ahead of her.”
Rettmann’s hands-on experience gained through fieldwork and research trips has been key in developing her skills in deploying oceanographic equipment and conducting sampling in various conditions. These trips allowed her to apply oceanography techniques in shallow waters while fostering meaningful relationships with fellow students, connections she hopes will support her academic future.
“Through these experiences, I’ve gained skills in deploying various types of oceanographic equipment, working in different conditions and preparing for research,” Rettmann said. “I feel like I’ve become a well-rounded oceanography student, better prepared for my career after graduation.”
This growing sense of readiness is exactly what the SMART Scholarship aims to foster. The SMART Scholarship-for-Service Program is an educational and workforce development opportunity for STEM students, offering scholarships for undergraduate, master’s and doctoral students pursuing a degree in science, technology, engineering or math. As part of the program, Rettmann was awarded the prestigious scholarship that offers a smorgasbord of benefits and, most important, guaranteed civilian employment with the Department of Defense after graduation.
The SMART Scholarship offers more than financial support; it provides a pathway to real-world experience. Recipients gain hands-on experience at one of over 150 Department of Defense facilities, focusing on fields like artificial intelligence, biotechnology, autonomy, cyber, space and 5G technology.
“Receiving the scholarship meant that all my hard work had paid off,” Rettmann said. “It gives me the security of having a job post-graduation and allows me to focus on my education without the financial burden that often comes with it.”
The SMART Scholarship builds future leaders in 24 STEM disciplines and is the largest education and workforce development initiative under the Department of Defense STEM Program. With this support, Rettmann is set to apply her oceanography expertise as an early-career professional in the government sector, a field she has long aspired to enter.
Before joining the government sector, Rettmann plans to pursue a master's degree in ocean science and technology next fall. This advanced education will further prepare her for her work with the Department of Defense, where she aims to apply her knowledge in meaningful ways.
After completing her studies, Rettmann will work at the Naval Oceanographic Office (NAVOCEANO) at Stennis Space Center in south Mississippi. She will contribute to physical oceanography through data collection and analysis to support military operations. NAVOCEANO, the largest subordinate command within the Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Command, provides vital oceanographic products and services to the Department of Defense.
At Stennis, Rettmann will help produce critical oceanographic, hydrographic, bathymetric, geophysical and acoustic products to ensure safe navigation and effective mission planning.
"My goal is to make connections and meet new people when I move to Mississippi,” Rettmann said. “It’s easy to isolate yourself when you move to a new place, but I’m determined not to let that happen after I graduate."
With the skills and experience she has gained at Texas A&M, Rettmann is poised to make a significant impact in oceanography and national security. Her work at NAVOCEANO will support military operations, enhance defense capabilities and help the Department of Defense achieve its objectives. The combination of hands-on learning at Texas A&M’s Department of Oceanography and the SMART Scholarship has been a game-changer, shaping her future and setting her on a path to success.