GEM-SET

Davinia Chism
Bell Helicopter

Education:
BS Mathematics
Minor in Computer Science Engineering
University of Texas at Arlington

MBA Engineering Management
Dallas Baptist University

MS Engineering
Texas Tech University

Current responsibilities:

I am the systems engineer and project manager on a portion of the Horizontal Technology Integration (HTI) program - a second-generation Forward Looking Infrared (FLIR) sensor. I am responsible for designing electronic image stabilization for the FLIR. In my job, I work with the team leads, the customer, and contractors to provide technical direction to members of all engineering disciplines in order to develop product enhancements. I also test the system - both in the lab and in the field, help contractors develop support equipment, aid the various platform users in effectively using and understanding the system, and participate in the normal system engineering roles of the product life cycle.

Other Jobs:

Hughes Aircraft - Systems Engineering designing high fidelity F-16 and F-15 flight simulators.
Lockheed Martin - Systems Engineering designing a long range surface-to-surface anti-tank missile.
Lockheed Martin/British Aerospace - System Engineering developing initial concept for a new reconnaissance tank/vehicle.

The best part about my job is:

The best part about my job is the opportunities I receive. I have fired the cannon in an Abrams tank, flown a MiG 21, spent many hours in an F-16 flight simulator, launched missiles at White Sands Missile Range, worked with NATO groups in England, supported numerous field tests and been the official determiner of 'go/no-go' status in mission control. As a young female civilian, these are extremely rare opportunities. I have fun with my job - and receive the satisfaction of knowing what I do supports the soldiers in the field and helps to protect my country.

I chose a career in engineering because:

My parents raised me to believe that I can do anything. As a result, I am a pilot of airplanes and helicopters, a skydiving jumpmaster, a member of a semi-professional Middle Eastern Folk Dance troupe, and active in many sports and hobbies. This 'can-do' belief is what made me choose engineering for a career. Engineering is a discipline that combines many of the factors I enjoy in my hobbies - creativity, analysis, teamwork and constant learning and improvement. Engineering, like flying and skydiving, is a field that is not yet heavily populated with women and I enjoy discovering how my unique abilities can work with other's to improve design and foster innovation.

My advice to the next generation of engineers would be:

My most important piece of advice to all future engineers is to care about your work - take responsibility. I firmly believe this attitude is what makes work interesting, personally fulfilling and have the potential to be above the norm. For women considering engineering, I encourage you. I feel that women bring a different perspective to problem solving which compliments the traditional engineering roles. This presents many exciting opportunities for women in engineering. For everyone, remember that your work is as exciting as you make it - so make sure everything you do counts!

Professional Associations:
Society of Women Engineers, President, Dallas Section
Women's Leadership Network
INCOSE - International Council of Systems Engineers