Favorite Parts of Being an Associate Finance Manager at Lockheed Martin
Chris, an Associate Finance Manager at Lockheed Martin, most enjoys the unique perspective their current role offers, working "right there with the engineers and their leadership teams" on projects like the Artemis program and satellite launches. This provides firsthand exposure to the engineering side of the company, allowing participation in problem-solving discussions concerning launch delays and satellite malfunctions—experiences far beyond typical finance roles.
Aerospace, Finance, Engineering, Leadership, Problem-Solving
Advizer Information
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Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
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Chris Seifert
Associate Finance Manager
Lockheed Martin
CU Boulder
UCLA - MBA
Business Management & Admin
Aerospace, Aviation & Defense
Finance
Scholarship Recipient
Video Highlights
1. Being involved in high-profile projects like the Artemis program and satellite launches offers unique insights into the engineering side of Lockheed Martin, providing a perspective not typically found in traditional finance roles.
2. The role allows for participation in problem-solving discussions regarding project delays and technical challenges, such as satellite solar panel deployment issues.
3. This position is ideal for those interested in engineering but who prefer a finance-related career path, offering a blend of both fields.
Transcript
What do you enjoy most about being in your current role?
As a finance person, you can sometimes get stuck in the world of numbers. Especially at a big company like Lockheed, you can lose sight of the actual end product or the engineering side of things.
That's what I really enjoy about my current role. I'm right there with the engineers and their leadership teams. You hear things you wouldn't typically hear in a finance role.
For example, there's the Artemis program, the next version of the Apollo space program. Lockheed is the main contractor developing it, and the first launch has been delayed due to various issues. I get to sit on calls where they figure out the problem, if it needs fixing, and when the next launch will be.
I would have never been part of those conversations in my old accounting or other finance jobs. It gives you a flavor of the engineering side of the company.
There was another time when we launched a satellite, and its solar panels weren't deploying correctly in space. It's very interesting to be a part of those conversations, even though I have nothing to contribute. It's really cool to listen in and hear them discuss potential solutions.
So, if you want a taste of engineering without pursuing that career path, this is a great hybrid type of role.