How long have you been with Northrop Grumman?
I’ve been with the company for over two years and am an active member of the Employee Resource Group (ERG), VERITAS.
What is your military background?
I served as a Jet Propulsion Journeyman on Pratt & Whitney F100-220E Jet Engines for F-16’s at the 144th Fighter Wing, California Air National Guard. As a Jet Propulsion Journeyman, I was responsible for the de-build and re-build of engines and subsystems. My duties also included Flightline and test cell. In the last year of my military career, I cross-trained to a Knowledge Operations Manager and assisted in the day-to-day operations of the Aircraft Maintenance Squadron.
How did your military background set you up for the role you are in now?
The military instilled three core values in me that I continue to live by:
Integrity: Honesty and accountability to do what is right even when no one is looking.
Service before Self: Expected to have the discipline to follow the rules, exhibit self-control and possess respect for the beliefs, authority and worth of others.
Excellence in All We Do: Strive for continual improvement in self and service to propel the Air Force further and to achieve greater accomplishment and performance for themselves and their community.
What was your experience transitioning into Northrop Grumman as a veteran?
I took a 10-year break to raise my children, and once they were old enough and in school full time, I decided to go back to work. When I applied for positions at Northrop Grumman and received phone calls back from the Talent Acquisition team, they were excited about my experience. I never really saw myself as a Veteran even though I served, and once I started working at Northrop Grumman, I noticed a large Veteran presence. It was awesome, but I still didn’t feel like I should be included as a Veteran myself. It wasn’t until the kick-off of the ERG GRIT that it finally hit me that, yes – I am a female Veteran; I signed on that dotted line and gave my oath to this country just like all the other Veterans. There was some crying involved when that realization had hit.
What do you hope to gain from your new role?
In my current role at Northrop Grumman, I hope to gain knowledge, evolve for the better, and continue to put forth quality work.
What advice would you give to other veterans interested in a career in Northrop Grumman?
Apply. Don’t stop and never give up – Continue to achieve success!
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