Purpose-Driven. Combat-Proven.
For more than 26 years, Dawn has been building a career defined by growth, grit, and a commitment to mission. Now serving as Vice President of Upper Tier Integrated Air and Missile Defense (IAMD) at Lockheed Martin, her journey is a reflection of where opportunity meets impact.
What started in Global Supply Chain evolved into a path shaped by hands-on leadership roles. Through the Operations Leadership Development Program (OLDP), a stint as Technical Assistant, and rising responsibilities in Program Management, each role added a new layer to her leadership story.
The Spark That Started It All
Dawn didn’t set out with Lockheed Martin in mind. But during the interview process, a Lockheed Martin team member, also a Texas A&M alum with an industrial engineering background, took time to personally connect with her. He answered her questions thoughtfully and helped her see how her skills aligned with the role.
That conversation made all the difference. The opportunity to travel, contribute to national security, and join a purpose-driven team sealed Dawn’s decision.
Today, Dawn leads the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) program and supports space systems on the Next Generation Interceptor (NGI) program. Her work sits at the forefront of integrated air and missile defense.
Culture That Fuels Excellence
Lockheed Martin is a place where people genuinely care—about the mission and about each other. That sense of shared purpose shows up in every interaction. From championing collaboration to accelerating change, Dawn ensures that every voice on her team is heard. She proudly describes her colleagues as her “work family,” where excellence is expected, but camaraderie is just as vital.
Her proudest moment came when THAAD was called upon in combat and delivered with a 100 percent successful flight test record. The validation of years of work and dedication was clear.
"The importance of how we’re supporting the warfighter, specifically on the THAAD program, is what keeps me coming back."
The THAAD Weapon System is used to fire two PAC-3 MSEs to intercept a live target.
Leading the Fight for Readiness
Reflecting on her career, Dawn calls it adventurous and says it has been full of unexpected turns. When she joined the company more than two decades ago, she couldn’t have predicted the path ahead.
Now, she’s helping lead the charge as Lockheed Martin answers growing global demand for THAAD and next-generation missile defense solutions. Her focus remains steady: protect the U.S. and its allies by staying responsive, agile, and mission ready.
"We are always doing what we need to, to be Ahead of Ready for our customers’ needs and demands."
Dawn’s Advice for Career Growth
Dawn’s journey offers powerful insight for those navigating their own paths:
Own your journey: Be curious. Explore the breadth of roles and opportunities across the company.
Speak up: Regularly share your goals and ambitions with your leaders.
Embrace the discomfort: Growth often begins where comfort ends.
Where the Best Are Built
Dawn’s story is more than a career milestone. It’s a testament to the culture, mission, and people that define Lockheed Martin. As she leads the future of Upper Tier IAMD, Dawn exemplifies how dedication and purpose drive real impact for the people it protects.