From Animation to AI: How Carl Goodwin’s AI skills landed him a NASA internship

"Don’t be afraid to change directions", says Carl Goodwin.

Carl Goodwin, an AI student at Monash University, has turned his love for animation and artificial intelligence into a dream internship at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL). Through Monash University’s National Indigenous Space Academy (NISA), Carl is working on cutting-edge space missions. In this exclusive interview with Moneycontrol.com, Carl shares how he made the leap from animation to AI and landed a prestigious role at NASA.

From Animation to AI: A Unique Career Path

Carl’s story is one of blending creativity with technology. “I’ve always been fascinated by space,” he shared, “but combining it with my studies in AI made me realize the vast potential of data science and machine learning.” Carl’s unique background in animation, paired with his studies in artificial intelligence, gave him an edge, allowing him to stand out in a competitive field.

Securing the NASA Internship: Networking and Mentorship

For many students, getting a NASA internship is a distant dream. Carl emphasizes the importance of networking and mentorship in his journey. “Connecting with others is important. I met Prof. Chris Lawrence and Assoc. Prof. Guido Tack at Monash University, and their guidance helped me make my application shine,” he said. By building strong mentorship, Carl was able to set himself apart from other applicants.

Overcoming Challenges: Switching from Animation to IT

Carl's transition from animation to AI wasn’t without its challenges. “I was nervous about starting my Master’s in IT with an animation background,” he admitted. But with support from his university and friends, Carl overcame the initial setbacks and developed a clear path forward. “Reaching out for help and giving myself time to adjust was key,” he explained.

Maintaining Focus with a Balanced Lifestyle

Staying motivated and focused was essential for Carl during his studies. “Work-life balance is crucial,” Carl shared. “I have hobbies like music and animation that help me unwind and stay focused.” His approach to maintaining a balanced lifestyle enabled him to excel in both his academic pursuits and personal interests.

Inspiring the Next Generation of Space Enthusiasts

Carl’s work at NASA’s JPL goes beyond personal achievement—it’s about inspiring future space explorers. “NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory is filled with talented people who are passionate about their work,” Carl said. “This environment creates a great place to learn and grow.” Carl hopes his story will inspire Indigenous students and others interested in STEM fields to pursue their dreams.

Advice for Aspiring Students: Take It Slow and Build Connections

When asked what advice he’d give to students just starting out, Carl emphasized the importance of taking your time and building relationships. “Don’t rush things—give yourself time to connect with people, find opportunities, and do your research,” he advised. For Carl, these elements were key in shaping his path to success.

The Role of AI in Space Exploration

Carl sees artificial intelligence as a key player in the future of space exploration. “NASA is working on massive projects that generate huge amounts of data, and AI is essential for processing and utilizing this data,” Carl explained. His current work at JPL involves using AI to analyze data from NASA’s Earth Surface Mineral Dust Source Investigation (EMIT) mission, helping predict environmental impacts based on sensor data.

What’s Next?

As Carl’s internship at NASA’s JPL comes to an end, he’s looking forward to completing his Master’s Thesis, likely focusing on AI applications in space missions. “Through my connections at NASA and Monash University, I’ll have great support for my thesis,” Carl said. He encourages students to stay open to new opportunities and embrace change: “Don’t be afraid to change directions!”