Built Through STEM

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When Sara started at Lockheed Martin as a summer intern, she couldn’t have imagined the path that lay ahead of her. Two consecutive internships with the S92 and S76 aircraft program in Trumbull, Connecticut, gave her a front row seat to the intricate details of program management, cross functional collaboration and the sheer scale of delivering advanced aerospace systems. Those early months opened her eyes to a world where engineering, data and creativity converge to solve real-world challenges.

November 20, 2025
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From Intern to Industrial Engineer

After graduating, Sara accepted a full-time role in aftermarket support for the same aircraft program. Yet, the dynamic energy of the production floor called to her. She transferred to an engineering role in Chelmsford, Massachusetts, as an industrial engineer. In that capacity, she supported a wide range of programs including the Integrated Air and Missile Defense (IAMD) portfolio of THAAD and PAC-3®  missile segment enhancement (MSE). This experience gave her the ability to streamline processes, forecast headcount needs, evaluate equipment capacity and remodel factory layouts, essentially ensuring the plant operates at its most optimal state.
Sara (pictured second from left) with one of two manufacturing teams she supports at the MFC Chelmsford, Massachusetts, site.

Why Industrial Engineering?

I knew I could use the skills I have learned in any industry, and specifically at Lockheed Martin.
The discipline blends data-driven decision-making, process-efficiency analysis and cost-saving strategies. The role equips engineers to tackle problems at any scale - whether optimizing a single assembly line or streamlining an entire program’s process. For Sara, the ability to make tangible improvements while directly contributing to mission critical outcomes was a perfect fit.
Sara speaking at the World Defense Show in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Leadership on the Front Lines

Over a year ago, Sara was promoted to manufacturing supervisor, leading a team of 10 on the Advanced Programs team. In this role she ensures that Lockheed Martin meets and exceeds customer goals, reinforcing the idea that a solid STEM foundation can pave the way to leadership positions where engineers shape outcomes, mentor teammates and drive innovation.

The Power of Early Exposure

Sara emphasizes that her internships were the catalyst for her STEM journey.
Through my internships I was able open my eyes to all the different business areas, products, functions and all of the ways Lockheed Martin has to collaborate.

Through this she was able to:

  • Build a professional network across engineering, program management and production.
  • Understand the end-to-end product lifecycle, from design concepts to the final delivery and sustainment.
  • Develop a hands-on mindset, prompting her move from office-based analysis to the shop floor.

These experiences highlight a broader truth: early, real-world exposure is one of the most effective ways to spark a lasting interest in STEM fields.

Val
Sara (fourth from the right) volunteering alongside her 2025 Engineers Week team.
A solid STEM degree gives you a skill set that can be applied across Lockheed Martin and beyond.
She added that the problem-solving mindset isn’t limited to the workplace; it empowers individuals to navigate everyday challenges, making STEM graduates valuable contributors in any setting.

Your Next Mission Starts Now 

Sara’s career demonstrates how curiosity, hands-on experience and a passion for solving problems can launch a rewarding STEM career at a leading aerospace and defense company.

“Whether you’re a high school student contemplating a major, a college graduate seeking your first role or a professional considering a switch, remember that the doors to STEM are open to anyone willing to ask questions, seek mentorship apply a data driven mindset and solve problems that push the business forward,” Sara said.

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