What was your first job and what did you learn from it?

My first job following graduation was as an electrical engineer with Raytheon Company at White Sands Missile Range. Being the first female engineer on site was an education for myself as well as all my male counterparts. I wanted to make sure I contributed as much as any of the them, and they found that having a female engineer wasn't all that bad. We worked hard side by side and learned from each other. I still laugh when I think about showing up in the field for an interview in a white skirt. I am sure that everyone was relieved when I reported for work my first day in a pair of pants!

Who is your hero, mentor or person you most admire? Why?

I admire anyone who takes adversity head on and maintains a positive outlook. We recently lost a fellow engineer who fully demonstrated this. Mitch Sutton was an inspiration to everyone who worked with him. He had suffered from polio as a small boy, but that did not keep him from achieving his goals. He was a fine engineer, a good friend, and a dedicated family man. I have had several mentors who have helped me develop as an engineer, but I am most grateful to my husband for his support and advice. Without this I would not be able to dedicate myself to my job as I do.

What is your favorite book?

I don't have one favorite book ... but I enjoy reading Tom Clancey, W.E.B. Griffin, Robert Ludlem, John Grisham and Clive Cussler.

What advances in your field do you envision over the next 10 years?

I am currently supporting a radar system for Theater Defense. I forsee technical advances in our processing capabilities. In our next generation system we will be reducing our system from two main frame computers, three high speed switches and four parallel processors to a single computer that will do it all! In addition, the 'hit-to-kill' technology that is so controversial today should progress rapidly in the next few years.

What do you see as the single most interesting element of your work?

I am truly fascinated with the technical capabilities of our defense systems. I have watched defense change over the past 20 years and have seen defense technology become useful in the commercial world. Raytheon is making a contribution to the quality of life for many people. Being involved in the testing and evaluation of our defense systems gives me satisfaction in knowing we are making a contribution by protecting our country and service members.

What do you consider to be your greatest accomplishment?

Being a wife, a mother and a professional. I was once told that you could not possibly do all of these things and do them well. While I may not be the best there is, I give it my best every day. I am proud to be the first female engineer Raytheon had at White Sands as well as the first female test program manager.

What was your greatest challenge and what did you learn from it?

My greatest challenge has been to back away from the technical role and respond as a manager. There are challenges in allowing others to 'do the work,' to allow others to follow their own methodology for solving problems, as well as keeping the communication channels open. I have learned that everyone has a unique contribution to make and the only way they can develop is to be allowed to demonstrate their abilities.

What advice would you give to young women who want to enter your field?

Give it your all! Don't expect special favors or special treatment. I believe anyone can accomplish anything they set their mind to. Engineering is a very exciting and valuable business. Be prepared to work and work well ... you will love it!