STEM educationLockheed Martin recognized for supporting young girls’ STEM education

Over the next eight years there will be more jobs available in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) than any other occupation. The Society of Women Engineers (SWE) recently presented Lockheed Martin with its first “Invaluable” award for championing education programs that inspire the next generation of women engineers and technologists.

The award was presented by a region of SWE’s Midwestern division, which encompasses twenty professional and collegiate SWE membership sections covering Colorado, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Wyoming, and southern Illinois.

SWE says that Lockheed Martin was recognized for the company’s long-standing support of SWE’s Girls Exploring Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (GESTEM) event. Held each year in Denver, the event introduces engineering principles and female role models to approximately 1,000 middle school girls. Lockheed Martin employee volunteers lead hands-on engineering workshops at the event, and the corporation also provides philanthropic support.

“When I was a student, the Society of Women Engineers played a major role in my career decision,” stated Rachel Davis, mechanical engineer for Lockheed Martin Space Systems’ Orion program. “Now I am honored to be part of a company that helps young girls chart their course in engineering and technology. There’s nothing more rewarding than to be part of building students’ courage and excitement in STEM.”

She noted that this effort is a part of Lockheed Martin’s commitment to help educate and inspire tomorrow’s scientists, engineers and mathematicians. Since 2010, Lockheed Martin has given more than $45 million to programs that promote STEM education.

“We’re honored by this recognition, and knowing we’re making a difference for these students — many of whom go on to become Lockheed Martin employees — is a reward in and of itself,” said Kathy Tobey, vice president and general manager of Special Programs for Lockheed Martin Space Systems. “We achieve excellence by fostering an environment where the benefits of a diverse workforce are understood, valued and leveraged.”