NASA Civil Servants & NASA Contractors
Ignition
Your years of service to NASA represent more than a career - they represent a lifetime of disciplined work, sacrifice, and commitment to something larger than yourself. With the sweeping changes announced at the Administrator's Ignition event in March, many civil servants and contractors are facing increased uncertainty around career paths, retirement timing, benefits, and long-term financial planning.
Our firm specializes in helping NASA civil servants and contractors transitioning to a Gold Badge navigate the complex financial decisions that come with federal employment and retirement planning. From FERS pension optimization and Social Security timing to TSP withdrawal strategies and tax-efficient income planning, we help bring clarity and confidence to every stage of the process.
We understand that NASA professionals are analytical, detail-oriented individuals who value precision, long-term thinking, and evidence-based decision making - the same principles that guide Matt Gast's financial planning philosophy. Drawing on 12 years of engineering experience in the Flight Operations Directorate (FOD) at JSC - including roles as an EVA astronaut instructor and MCC flight controller in both CX and CO - Matt brings a uniquely analytical and disciplined perspective to financial planning.
Today, Matt applies the same mission-focused leadership he developed at JSC to lead the team at Partners in Planning in helping NASA civil servants and contractors navigate the complexities of retirement planning with insight and empathy. We understand the operational culture and the unique challenges NASA professionals face during periods of transition - including changes to compensation, service credit, retirement benefits, and certification pay - to help clients make rational, informed decisions to successfully navigate the evolving environment created by Ignition.
Contact Matt and the team at Partners in Planning below to schedule a conversation.
After a career dedicated to advancing exploration, you deserve a retirement plan built with the same level of precision, discipline and confidence that defines your mission at NASA.
Thrift Savings Plan
The Federal Government's retirement savings plan. Take advantage of NASA's matching contribution.
FERS Basic Benefit Plan
The Basic Benefit Plan is the Federal Government's pension plan. Meeting the eligibility requirements are critical for your retirement.
Federal Employee Health Benefits
Understand the FEHB Plan as both a NASA CS and as a future NASA retiree.
Social
Security
Know your Social Security benefit options. When you choose to begin drawing on Social Security can make all the difference.
Your trust. Our expertise.
Our responsibility to our clients comes first. From wealth management to retirement solutions, our insight and financial strategies can help make your investment goals a reality.