Chapter Next: Helping With the Transition Back to Work

Chapter Next: Helping With the Transition Back to Work

Marni, Samantha and Jennifer, three experienced professionals, left the workforce to invest in their families and themselves. Now, Chapter Next is helping them invest in their careers.

October 08, 2024
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Jennifer
Jennifer,  Engineering Planner Staff

Reigniting Her Career

Samantha
Samantha, Senior Systems Engineer

Returning Stronger

Marni
Marni, Senior Integrated Program Planner

Planning the Next Steps

Returning to the workforce after a career break can be daunting, but Lockheed Martin’s Chapter Next program is designed to make the transition easier. Chapter Next is a unique opportunity that allows experienced professionals to re-engage in their careers after taking a break of one year or more. Participants join a 12–16-week paid returnship, where they are matched with roles that align with their skills and expertise, while also receiving comprehensive training, professional development and networking opportunities to support their transition.

 

Since its inception, Chapter Next has helped close to 100 individuals successfully re-enter the workforce and relaunch their careers. Each participant brings a unique story, contributing to the program's success and demonstrating the true impact of a supportive return-to-work environment.

Jennifer: Reigniting Her Career

 

 

 

 

After a 20-year career break spent raising her family, Jennifer re-entered the workforce. Having previously worked for Lockheed Martin, she knew this was the right place to start her job search, and Chapter Next provided the perfect opportunity. Jennifer transitioned smoothly into her new role as a control account manager, leveraging her skills in organization and multitasking gained from her experience as a daycare caregiver. She describes the environment at Lockheed Martin as collaborative and supportive, stating, "Chapter Next gives you all of the tools, mentorship and resources needed for a smooth transition.”

 

 

 

Jennifer and family
It was just such a collaborative and supportive environment when I worked there previously. So, it was an easy choice to come back.

 

 

Samantha: Returning Stronger

 

 

After starting her career with Lockheed Martin in 2003, senior systems engineer, Samantha had to step away in 2012 for medical reasons. Following an eight-year break, she returned through the Chapter Next program, which provided the training, mentorship and support needed for a smooth reintegration. Now fully back in her role, Samantha applies both her extensive experience, and the fresh perspective gained during her returnship. Samatha’s advice to those returning to the workforce is simple, “it’s going to be hard. Adjusting to a new normal is always hard. "

 

Whether you’re a new mom who’s been home for many years or you have been home sick or taking care of someone who is, you’re not the same person that you were when you left the workforce - that’s okay. Don’t try to be the same person. You’ll drive yourself crazy. Focus on being the best version of the new you and you will be amazing.

Marni: Rediscovering Her Career

 

 

After graduate school, Marni accepted her dream role in espionage within the Intelligence Community. She worked in that capacity for seven years before shifting her priorities to raising her children for the next 20 years. Once her children were grown, Marni was ready to re-enter the workforce, though the path forward was uncertain. Then she discovered Lockheed Martin’s Chapter Next program. Through this returnship, she found a new professional home as an Integrated Program Planner, receiving support every step of the way from her mentors and managers. Marni successfully transitioned to full-time employment, applying skills from her previous career as well as invaluable life skills gained through motherhood, such as time management, multitasking and adaptability. As she put it, "Employees returning to the workforce can be a huge asset for any company, and I love that Lockheed Martin recognizes this."

 

 

Marni and family

 

 

Although everything felt completely new, I was so encouraged by how supportive my Chapter Next leads and hiring manager were every step of the way.

A Place of Support and Inspiration

At Lockheed Martin, we are committed to supporting women at all stages of their careers. Whether you’re just starting out, advancing in your field, or seeking to return to the workforce after a career break, we provide the resources, mentorship and opportunities needed to succeed. Our programs, like Chapter Next, are designed to bridge the gap and offer a supportive community for women looking to relaunch their careers. We recognize that the diversity of experiences and life skills that women bring to our teams are invaluable assets that drive innovation and success.

 

Lockheed Martin isn’t just a great place to work for women—it’s a place where careers flourish, and support is always within reach. 

 

Together, we strive to create an environment where women feel empowered, valued and inspired to reach their full potential.

 

Lockheed Martin is committed to helping individuals re-enter the workforce and setting them up for success. Through programs like Chapter Next, we provide comprehensive training, mentorship and support, ensuring that everyone—regardless of their career break—has the resources to thrive. Our inclusive approach values the diverse experiences each person brings, helping them grow professionally and contribute meaningfully to our mission. At Lockheed Martin, we believe in empowering talent at all levels and providing opportunities for everyone to succeed.