Intro
Meet Marillyn Hewson, Lockheed Martins CEO and daughter of a Lockheed Martin engineer. Discover her remarkable journey to the top, overcoming obstacles and breaking glass ceilings. Learn about her leadership style, strategic vision, and accomplishments that propelled her to become one of the most influential women in the defense industry.
Marillyn Hewson, the first female CEO of Lockheed Martin, is a shining example of a woman who has shattered the glass ceiling in the male-dominated aerospace and defense industry. With a career spanning over three decades, Hewson has proven herself to be a talented leader, a strategic thinker, and a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion.
Hewson's journey to the top began in 1983 when she joined Lockheed Martin as an industrial engineer. At the time, the company was still in its formative years, and Hewson was just one of a handful of women in the organization. Despite the odds, she quickly made a name for herself as a talented and dedicated professional, taking on increasingly complex roles within the company.
One of Hewson's earliest successes came in the 1990s when she led a team that developed a new manufacturing process for the company's F-22 fighter jet. The process, which involved the use of advanced robotics and automation, not only improved efficiency but also reduced costs. This achievement caught the attention of Lockheed Martin's senior leadership, and Hewson soon found herself being tapped for more significant roles within the organization.
Breaking Down Barriers
Throughout her career, Hewson has been driven by a passion for breaking down barriers and challenging the status quo. As a woman in a male-dominated industry, she faced numerous challenges, from biases and stereotypes to outright sexism. However, instead of letting these obstacles hold her back, Hewson used them as opportunities to learn and grow.
One of Hewson's most significant achievements came in 2013 when she was appointed CEO of Lockheed Martin, becoming the first woman to hold the position. This appointment sent shockwaves throughout the industry, and Hewson quickly found herself in the spotlight. However, she remained focused on her goals, using her platform to advocate for diversity and inclusion within the company.
Under Hewson's leadership, Lockheed Martin has become a leader in diversity and inclusion. The company has implemented a range of initiatives aimed at promoting diversity, from mentorship programs and scholarships to diversity and inclusion training. These efforts have paid off, with Lockheed Martin being recognized as one of the most diverse and inclusive companies in the world.
A Leader in Innovation
In addition to her commitment to diversity and inclusion, Hewson has also been a driving force behind Lockheed Martin's innovation efforts. Under her leadership, the company has invested heavily in research and development, with a focus on emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and autonomous systems.
One of Lockheed Martin's most significant innovations under Hewson's leadership has been the development of the F-35 fighter jet. This fifth-generation fighter is the most advanced in the world, with capabilities that include stealth, advanced sensors, and autonomous systems. The F-35 has been a game-changer for Lockheed Martin, with the company securing billions of dollars in contracts for the aircraft.
Strategic Thinking
Hewson's success as CEO of Lockheed Martin can be attributed to her strategic thinking and ability to adapt to changing circumstances. In an industry that is constantly evolving, Hewson has demonstrated a keen understanding of the trends and technologies that are shaping the future of aerospace and defense.
One of Hewson's most significant strategic decisions was to expand Lockheed Martin's presence in the commercial market. This move was a departure from the company's traditional focus on government contracts, and it has paid off, with Lockheed Martin securing significant contracts in the commercial sector.
Awards and Recognition
Throughout her career, Hewson has received numerous awards and recognition for her achievements. In 2019, she was named one of the most powerful women in the world by Fortune magazine. She has also been recognized as one of the most influential people in the world by Time magazine.
In addition to these accolades, Hewson has also received numerous awards for her contributions to the aerospace and defense industry. In 2018, she was awarded the National Medal of Technology and Innovation, the highest honor bestowed by the US government for technological achievement.
Legacy
As Hewson approaches the end of her tenure as CEO of Lockheed Martin, she leaves behind a legacy that will be remembered for generations to come. Her commitment to diversity and inclusion, innovation, and strategic thinking has set a new standard for the aerospace and defense industry.
Hewson's legacy extends beyond her achievements as CEO of Lockheed Martin. She has inspired countless women and girls to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Her advocacy for diversity and inclusion has also helped to break down barriers and challenge biases within the industry.
Conclusion
Marillyn Hewson's rise to CEO of Lockheed Martin is a testament to her hard work, determination, and strategic thinking. Her commitment to diversity and inclusion, innovation, and strategic thinking has set a new standard for the aerospace and defense industry.
As we look to the future, Hewson's legacy will continue to inspire and motivate women and girls to pursue careers in STEM. Her advocacy for diversity and inclusion will also help to break down barriers and challenge biases within the industry.
We invite you to share your thoughts on Marillyn Hewson's achievements and legacy in the comments section below. How do you think she has impacted the aerospace and defense industry? What lessons can we learn from her career and achievements?