Chineta Davis is a pioneering engineer who served as the senior vice president for Northrop Grumman's Electronic Systems business unit when she won the Technologist of the Year award in 2007.

With over 30 years in the industry, she also held the position of second vice-chair of the Associated Black Charities in Maryland.

When reflecting on what she wished she had known at the beginning of her career, Davis highlighted the importance of understanding organization charts and key players, attending work-related social events, clearly expressing career aspirations, and continually reading.

Davis noted substantial progress since she entered the workforce in the 1970s, as women are advancing and more confident in decision-making.

Companies have also improved in supporting the balance between family and career.

However, she identified certain factors that may still hold women back and shared ten valuable tips for advancing women in the workplace:

Davis emphasized that developing a thick skin early in her career was beneficial.

"I didn't grow up in a household where people discussed stocks at the dinner table or predicted market movements," said Davis. "However, I was fortunate to work for Suzanne Jenniches," the first intern at Westinghouse Electric Company. "She advised, 'If you want to be competitive in this industry, you have to develop a 'rhino hide' and not take things personally.'"

Jenniches served from 2003 to 2010 as vice president and general manager of Northrop Grumman’s government systems division.

Davis is optimistic that more women will achieve director and vice president roles with appropriate mentorship and sponsorship.

She noted a trend from a decade ago, when college graduates expected rapid advancement, wanting to be vice presidents within five to ten years.

She also recognized the evolving nature of job tenure.

"I know colleges now advise students on job changes, and while it varies by individual, don’t burn bridges," she cautioned. "Make a one- to five-year plan, clarify your goals, outline a career path, seek performance reviews, move forward, and succeed."

Additionally, Davis encouraged women to ensure they are acknowledged at the table and do not feel invisible. She urged STEM professionals to go out and make a difference.

"That's why I enjoy mentoring young girls," she said.

The WOC STEM Conference was another platform she found valuable. "It’s reassuring to have avenues for recognition. You learn about what other companies are doing, gaining perspective. Use the conference to contribute and benefit from it," she advised.