The Rocket Launch That Launched a Career
For Nicole, an engineer working on our National Security Space team, the path to a career in aerospace was shaped by hands-on experiences, inspiring mentors, and a passion for engineering that took flight, literally, when she witnessed her first rocket launch...
Engineering Wasn't Always the Plan...
In high school, Nicole was first introduced to the field when she worked on a robotics project, turning a simple block of wood into a functioning robot. The project challenged her to think creatively, and after competing (and winning) at a robotics competition in Baltimore, her passion for electrical engineering was born.
That spark was reignited years later when an internship with Lockheed Martin Rotary and Mission Systems (RMS) took her to the heart of the Space Coast.
An Internship That Launched a Career
Nicole first connected with Lockheed Martin at a college conference, where she learned about the company’s internship program and the opportunities available.
During her internship, she worked on an Independent Research and Development (IRAD) project, coding software for F-35 pilot training simulators. Although she had limited coding experience at the time, the project was a valuable learning opportunity. Seeing firsthand how the software enhanced pilot safety and effectiveness was a pivotal moment in her career. Coming from a military family, the experience was especially meaningful, knowing her contributions were directly supporting key mission.
Beyond technical skills, Nicole took full advantage of networking opportunities. From ice cream socials to speed mentoring and leadership meetings, she sought out conversations that could shape her career. A meeting with one mentor, Dorcia, had a profound impact.
From Intern to Space Engineer: Building a Career with Impact
As her internship ended, Nicole knew she wanted to stay with Lockheed Martin—but also pivot toward space. Encouraged by a mentor, she voiced her interest, leading to a full-time career in national security space, where she now contributes to critical defense missions and has built a strong sense of belonging.
Today, she plays a hands-on role in developing space technologies that will travel beyond Earth’s atmosphere. She has also refined a key skill—translating complex technical work into clear, impactful communication essential to Lockheed Martin’s success.
Reflecting on her journey, Nicole has valuable advice for future interns hoping to turn their experience into a career:
- Confidence is key. “Imposter syndrome is real, but managers and mentors know that. Ask questions, be engaged, and don’t let self-doubt hold you back.”
- Networking matters. “Get away from your desk. Meet people. Attend events. You never know who will be instrumental in your career.”
- Stay true to your path. “I put a lot of time and effort into my electrical engineering degree, and I want to honor that. For now, I’m loving my role in space, but one day, I’d love to return to Cape Canaveral and work on-site.”
From a robotics project in high school to playing a hands-on role in national security space programs, Nicole has truly aligned her skills with her passion. Her journey is a testament to how curiosity, hard work, and the right opportunities can turn dreams into reality.