Good evening.
It’s a pleasure to join you once again for BEYA.
I’m honored to represent Lockheed Martin tonight as we celebrate the leadership and achievements of some of the brightest minds in science, technology, engineering, and math.
At BEYA, we lift up men and women who are dedicated to advancing scientific discovery, committed to making a difference in their communities, and passionate about inspiring the next generation of STEM leaders.
The theme of this year’s conference is “Global Catalyst for Change: Making the Untapped Potential Possible.”
The leaders we recognize tonight exemplify “global catalysts for change.”
From the discoveries and innovations they’ve made in the STEM fields, to the impact they’ve had on students and society, they are transforming the world.
At Lockheed Martin, we are proud of our strong and enduring relationship with BEYA.
For 34 years, we have worked together to expand hope and opportunity for thousands of young people.
Each year, this conference provides an opportunity for companies to recruit the talent they need to solve 21st century problems, for professionals to network and grow, and for students to learn, connect, and seek out life-changing opportunities.
At Lockheed Martin, we are one of many companies that has benefited from the connections we have made to talented young people here at BEYA.
Tonight, I’d like to share the story of one of those employees.
Alexzander Walker grew up in the Las Vegas, Nevada, area.
As a child, Alexzander loved computers. And he had one special math teacher who ignited in him a passion to study mathematics.
Alexzander worked hard, and by the time he graduated high school, he had earned a full scholarship to Virginia State University.
There, he studied computer engineering and mathematics.
Alexzander first learned about Lockheed Martin during an on-campus career fair.
As the son of two Marines, he understood the critical importance of the work our company does.
He was inspired by Lockheed Martin’s mission, and he felt drawn by the sense of purpose that our employees bring to work each day.
After attending BEYA for two years, Alexzander landed an interview with a Lockheed Martin hiring manager at the career fair here.
After a successful interview, he was offered a job with our company.
Alexzander now works as a systems engineer in New Jersey, focusing on radar systems that keep our men and women in uniform safe.
Alexzander’s story is just one of many stories that have taken place at this conference.
And we know dozens more like his are taking shape this weekend.
We also know that there are students here who have yet to tap into their full potential.
We hope this conference inspires them to continue pursuing their dreams, and that BEYA helps connect them to opportunities that make those dreams a reality.
On behalf of Lockheed Martin, I would like to congratulate tonight’s honorees and to thank everyone who has worked so hard to make the 2020 BEYA Conference a success.
As we celebrate the achievements of this year’s BEYA winners, let us re-commit ourselves to the mission of this wonderful gathering.
Together, we must continue to inspire, mentor, and lift up young men and women as they aspire to the STEM fields.
And we must continue to recognize those who, through their energy and ingenuity, are transforming the world and building a brighter future for all.
Enjoy the evening!