Building Networks and Community at "LM NOW"
At the Lockheed Martin Network of Women ("NOW") event, college students and accomplished professionals met for a high-energy day of networking, workshops and keynote speeches. The concept of "social capital" - the networks you build, the relationships you cultivate, and how that can positively impact your career potential - surfaced as a core theme.
Empowering women in STEM and business is woven into who we are at Lockheed Martin. Through the Lockheed Martin Network of Women (LM NOW), we strive to inspire the next generation of female leaders by providing college students with unique opportunities to connect with accomplished female professionals across various fields.
During the inaugural LM NOW event, several Lockheed Martin professionals shared their advice and experiences related to creating - and leveraging - strong networks, fostering relationships and advocating for yourself.
They keynote speaker at LM NOW was Stephanice C. Hill, President of Rotary and Mission Systems, a $17 billion dollar enterprise with a diverse portfolio of programs supported by 35,000 people across the globe.
It's a big job. And getting there has been a decades-long journey powered not only by a great deal of self-determination, but also by mentors, allies and advocates who invested in her potential.
Stephanie's experience developing relationships and building her network has influenced what she calls her Career Imperatives, which she shared with the group at LM NOW.
1. Choosing the Right Attitude
Having the right attitude really is a choice. We all get to decide how we react and respond to different situations: Being intentional, assuming good intent and trying - if you can - to smile, can be the deciding factor between a success or a setback. Everyone faces challenging career moments, but if you treat people with respect, you'll see the results.
2. Track Record
As you find your footing in your first job out of school or with a company, keep an eye on the next step that will advance you towards your long-term goals, but focus on the role you're in. Do your absolute best. This is the most effective way to make yourself competitive for future opportunities.
3. Care
It's so important to come to work every day knowing your leaders and teammates care not just about your success, but about you as a person. Check in with people. Ask how they're doing. Offer to help with a project or problem. Support them with feedback, a listening ear or a shoulder to lean on. Genuinely caring is key to building social capital.
Mentorship, both personal and professional, has been critical in Ariel's journey. After taking the stage at NOW, she credited her success to the strength of the women who have shaped her path.
Raised by her single mom, Beverly, and inspired by her aunt Lisa, Ariel learned early that setbacks aren't roadblocks but stepping stones.
"In our Caribbean culture, education and independence are vital," Ariel says. With their support, she earned her degrees and built a career where resilience is key.
While her mom and aunt remain sources of encouragement, at Lockheed Martin Ariel found equally strong female mentors and leaders who have helped guide her professionally.
These mentors provided the support and counsel she needed to navigate a career transition, find success in a hybrid work environment and ultimately, create a new role for herself as a full-time project manager.
At Lockheed Martin, women like Ariel are paving the way, showing that our unique, supportive culture is a key element to their success, creating an environment where determination and talent can thrive without limits. She encourages others to seek out opportunities to grow and use their voice.