Boeing’s Leanne Caret, Engility’s Lynn Dugle on Challenges Facing Women in Defense Industry

Women now hold senior leadership roles at top defense contractors and among them are Leanne Caret, president and CEO of Boeing’s defense, space and security business, and Engility CEO Lynn Dugle, Politico reported Wednesday.

Caret noted that women continue to encounter challenges in the defense sector, which she considers are more aspirational than institutional.

“We need women, and men, who can tackle really tough assignments without losing their sense of self or sense of humor,” she said.

Dugle cited some of her efforts to address the challenges as she moves up the leadership ladder in the defense industry.

“One of my biggest challenges has been resisting the temptation to tell myself I couldn’t do something,” Dugle said.

“I continually remind myself to have courage and confidence,” she added.

Other female executives in the defense sector mentioned in the report include Kathy Warden, president and CEO of Northrop Grumman; Marillyn Hewson, president and CEO of Lockheed Martin; and Phebe Novakovic, chairman and CEO of General Dynamics.