Charles Harbor-Clark
Principal Engineer & Manager of Systems Management Segment
Raytheon Systems Company
Nominated by: Ed Johnson
Excerpt from nomination: "Ms. Clark is responsible for providing system management for over 500 software development platforms used by over 300 software engineers. She manages 12 systems managerssupporting a variety of platforms including: Sun O/S, Sun Solaris, HP-UX, DG-UX, etc. Her group is also charged with traveling to customer sites to perform installations and troubleshooting. Her customers include Air Traffic Control systems, Vessel Tracking Systems, Personal Rapid Transports.
She is committed to excellence, and known for her leadership by example. She is an outstanding teacher, mentor and role model for many. She sees the Big Picture, and gives of herself to the community generously. In 1997, she was honored as the Black Engineer of the Year. Raytheon is very proud of her!"
1. What was your first job and what did you learn from it?
My first paid position was as a Oil & Gas Analyst for State of Louisiana.
I learned that some people won't do the right thing even if it is in their
best interest. Actually I already knew that but after the same people
month after month either did not file reports or filed them incorrectly,
thus causing them to pay fines and penalties, I was reminded daily of that
fact. I also learned to be very patient. I often forget to be patient.
Who is your hero, mentor or person you most admire? Why?
This list would be extremely long. There have been and continue to be
many people who provide inspiration, guidance, and support. The list
includes family, friends, colleagues and managers. The individual
that was most responsible for the person I am was my dad. He always
encouraged and supported me. From the time I was very young he taught
me that what I did was not nearly as important as enjoying what I chose
to do.
What is your favorite book?
I love to read my taste ranges from romance to science fiction. I really
don't have a favorite.
What advances in your field do you envision over the next 10 years?
Computers seem to be always getting faster, more powerful, more user
friendly, smaller and less expensive.
What do you see as the single most interesting element of your
work?
Without a doubt it is the interface with the users and my colleagues.
What do you consider to be your greatest accomplishment?
I am a work in progress. My most important contributions are my
son and grandson.
What was your greatest challenge and what did you learn from it?
The greatest challenge for so far has been working overseas. I spent
3 years in Korea and 4 years in Japan. Most of the time was spent
at or supporting Military installations. I learned to appreciate
diversity.
What advice would you give to young women who want to enter your
field?
Actally it is advice I would give to anyone in any field. It is very
important that you have a passion for what you do, if you don't perhaps
you are in the wrong field.
