Intern to Cybersecurity Leader

From Intern to Cybersecurity Leader: Kaushiki’s Journey at Lockheed Martin

How Mentorship Transformed a High School Internship into a Promising Career in Cybersecurity

August 29, 2024
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When Kaushiki began her journey with Lockheed Martin in 2019 as an intern, she was immediately struck by the enriching experience and the invaluable mentorship she received. Guided by dedicated leaders, her time as one of the first high school interns at our facility in  Hanover, Maryland, allowed her to explore projects in electrical engineering, computer science, and cybersecurity. These experiences profoundly shaped her career aspirations, leading her to pursue a degree in computer and electrical engineering with a focus on cybersecurity at Virginia Tech.

 

Each summer, Kaushiki eagerly returned to Lockheed Martin, where her mentors continued to invest in her growth, helping her refine her skills and solidify her career path. Upon graduating in 2023, she accepted a full-time position as she was drawn by the passion and dedication of her colleagues and the company’s commitment to innovation.

Now, as a full-time cybersecurity professional, Kaushiki is dedicated to paying forward the mentorship that played such a crucial role in her development. Recognizing the impact of her own experiences, she actively sought out opportunities to mentor the next generation of interns. Collaborating with fellow former interns, she works to enhance the internship program, ensuring it provides the same level of support and guidance that helped her succeed.

 

Kaushiki’s commitment to mentorship is evident in her efforts to help interns build their networks, develop their skills, and grow in confidence. She is proud to contribute to a program that not only shapes individual careers but also the future of Lockheed Martin. Her own success, including her acceptance into the executive leadership program, is a testament to the power of mentorship at Lockheed Martin.

 

 

mentor group

 

Kaushiki encourages everyone—whether a former intern or not—to get involved in mentoring. 

Mentoring
Every interaction I had as an intern played a significant role in my decision to accept a full-time position with Lockheed Martin and my confidence and ability to accept leadership positions from the get-go. We can all help shape the next generation of our innovators and game changers.