Meet Charles, one of the newest engineering aides at Lockheed Martin. Through the Lockheed Martin Vocational Scholarship Program, he learned about employment opportunities and landed his dream job while working to finish his associate degree in May 2022.
Charles always wanted to be an engineer.
“Since I was a child, I have been fascinated with machinery, how it works, how it’s assembled and designed,” he said. “My initial dream was to become a mechanical engineer, but now I am pursuing engineering technology so I can be more hands on.”
While pursuing an associate degree in advanced manufacturing technology from Calhoun Community College in Alabama, the COVID-19 pandemic took away Charles’ primary source of income. He struggled financially like millions of Americans have over the past two years.
So, when a college administrator emailed students about the Lockheed Martin Vocational Scholarship, Charles jumped at the chance to apply. In fact, he had never heard of a scholarship geared towards students pursuing an associate degree.
“The Vocational Scholarship paid for my final two semesters,” he said. “It helped me afford all of the necessary books and equipment, and also provided me a cushion to help with living and transportation expenses.”
In its second year, the Lockheed Martin Vocational Scholarship Program currently supports over 150 learners of all ages participating in skills-based training in cutting-edge technology and advanced manufacturing fields. Applications are open now through April 1, so you can apply too!
After Charles received his scholarship, he attended several informational Zoom sessions with Lockheed Martin to learn about career resources and open engineering positions. So, he applied for a job!
“I honestly felt overwhelmed,” Charles said. “I was thinking, can I really work at a Fortune 500 company with just my associate degree?”
While Lockheed Martin is known for unmatched technical expertise, it also offers multiple pathways to becoming a skilled engineer. America’s technological advantage depends on building a talent pipeline from all backgrounds. And with diverse employee perspectives, the Lockheed Martin team can solve customers’ toughest challenges.
“As an engineering aide, I am getting exposure to what engineering is like in the real world,” he said. “I’m beginning my career ahead of the game! Being a Lockheed Martin Scholar provided me this opportunity. It proves that no matter what you have gone through or where you are in life, it’s never too late to pursue your dreams.”