5 Young Leaders Share Their Secrets For Success

At the BEYA Conference, Northrop Grumman Corporation showcased young, Black members of their team.

- Denise Stephens

These rising stars gave some insight into what it’s like to work for the aerospace and defense technology company and discussed how they achieved success by staying true to who they are.

Lakisha Platenburg

CDC Project Manager Lakisha Platenburg’s interest in computer science started the first time she touched a computer. Since then, she’s gone on to lead a team that develops software applications for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a Northrop Grumman client. She also advocates for women and African-American employees as a board member in two employee resource groups.

“I’m one of the few people I know who truly enjoy their job every single day,” she says.

Dr. Arik Brown

Consulting Systems Architect Throughout his 19-year career, Dr. Arik Brown has worked in a variety of roles. Initially a principal engineer, he’s supported projects ranging from radar and electronic warfare applications to ground systems and air support programs.