2008-08-18T00:32:00.000-07:00

Charla Wise - Aerospace Engineer, Lockheed Martin

For Charla Kamm Wise, the sky was not the limit--it was the beginning. After graduating from the University of Michigan College of Engineering in 1975 with a BSE in aerospace engineering, Wise was one of the few females to venture into the male-dominated field of defense-related engineering.

"I was always encouraged to do what I was good at, to strive for excellence, keep focused and not be afraid to dream and try new things," said Wise. "Becoming an engineer allowed me to make my dreams a reality everyday."

Wise began her career at General Dynamics as an associate engineer, working on propulsion systems for the F-16 fighter jet. After a series of rotating assignments helped her identify her talent for program management, she moved to F-16 U.S. Air Force Programs, where she later became director--the first woman to head a weapons project in the history of the Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company.

Now, with 27 years of experience in the aerospace industry, Wise is Vice President of Engineering at the Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company and still involved with the F-16 program. Wise is responsible for over 10,000 engineering personnel at three Lockheed Martin sites. Under her leadership, this corps of engineers helps keep the United States military flying with advanced technologies like the F-16, F/A-22, F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, C-130J, F-117 and the U-2 reconnaissance aircraft.

Throughout her career, Wise has defined leadership as helping others develop their potential. She was one of the early supporters of a two-year mentoring program for women and minorities at Lockheed Martin. Wise has remained active as a Michigan alumna as a member of the College of Engineering's National Advisory Committee and has served on the Industry Advisory Board of the Tauber Manufacturing Institute. In 2002, the Women in Aerospace Organization honored her with a Lifetime Achievement Award.

"Charla is not only an exceptional role model for women in the aerospace field, but actively promotes their advancements and contributions," said Dain M. Hancock, President of Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company. "She has been an excellent mentor for numerous employees and is someone who has been a critical part of our leadership team for a number of years."

Despite a busy and successful career, Wise still finds time to enjoy life and raise her three children with her husband, Michael.

"We all need to be aware of and appreciate the quality moments of our lives," Wise told Michigan Engineering graduates at the College's 2002 commencement ceremonies. "Quality moments are what we live for. Don't get so busy with all the other things that you miss them!"

By Neal Lao, College of Engineering

TBP Aerospace