If anyone is searching for the blueprint on how to be successful while inspiring others, look no further than Jennifer Childs, director, Technical and Design Engineering.
Childs was recognized this week as a recipient of the 2023 Women MAKE Award at the Manufacturing Institute annual gala in Washington, D.C. The award is presented each year to 100 women who work in the fields of science, technology, engineering and production and exemplify leadership within their companies.
For 15 years, the Navy veteran has remained committed to excellence in her craft at Ingalls, showing leadership through each step of her career. Childs is responsible for functional engineers, designers, field engineers and test engineers that support all contracts at Ingalls.
Her team uses ship specifications to develop design parameters, perform calculations to develop the system design, create the 3D model, and produce drawings to purchase material in the planning and design phases of ship construction. In addition to leading Field Engineering to support craft on the waterfront, Childs also leads Engineering Test and Trials, which writes test procedures and supports onshore and at-sea testing.
“I have a great job. I have amazing people that work for me, that come in to work every day and do incredibly challenging, but important things,” said Childs. “I am consistently awed by the experience and caliber of my team. I thrive on helping them develop and grow and seeing them be successful.”
With her experience in the Navy, Childs understands both the mission and purpose of Ingalls. Being able to give back and contribute to our military keeps her motivated to show up to work and make a difference. Her team's role is critical and has a direct impact on the quality and cost of the final product.
“I love being a part of something bigger than myself, especially contributing to our national defense," she said. "Our ability as a team and a company to incorporate challenging Navy/Coast Guard requirements into compliant ships supports the customer's mission and that of those who serve aboard the ships.”
As Childs continues to blaze a trail in her field, she now also aims to embolden her team and the next generation of talent in the same way she was inspired by those who helped her.
“I am incredibly fortunate in my time at Ingalls to have worked with amazing people who invested in me and supported me through the various roles I have held," she said. "I have been inspired by those that have come before me, and I hope that someone can look at my career and feel inspired at the many opportunities possible for them at Ingalls.”
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