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https://www.nccwsl.org/2015/04/07/amanda-simpson/
Simpson currently serves as the executive director of the U.S. Army Office of Energy
Initiatives, and has worked in the field of aviation and defense technology for more than 30
years. Simpson credits her lifelong curiosity with fueling her passion for science and
technology. I wanted to know how things worked and why, she told us. It was that
question of Why? that kept me interested in the sciences all through school and into
college.
While studying physics at Harvey Mudd College, Simpson trained in aviation an interest
propelled by her instructor Iris Critchell, another leader in womens aviation history.
Critchell was one of the first pilots in the unit that became known as the U.S. Women
Airforce Service Pilots (WASP).
After college, Simpson began her career with Hughes Aircraft (later purchased by
Raytheon), one of the nations leading aerospace technology companies. Working her way
up from test pilot to managing executive, she successfully led innovative projects in
aviation and defense technology. The years I spent as a test pilot where [we] were testing
sensors and different weapons were the most fun I had. My work and passions were
aligned, she said. Knowing that I have helped keep not only our war fighters but our
nation safe, is by far one the largest rewards that I will ever have.
Amanda Simpson has flown nearly 3,000 miles in her career as a pilot and aerospace
engineering expert. Photo Credit: Tucson Citizen
In 2010, Simpson became the first openly transgender female Presidential Appointee in U.S. history.
Photo credit: U.S. Army Fort Huachuca
Simpson strives to make her life an example of this truth. There were several different
events that compelled me to take action, whether it was the murder of Matthew Shepard or
the career of Harvey Milk. I know several role models in the LGBT community Lynn
Conway, Sally Ride, Billie Jean King, to name a few and it was those people who still
inspire me. I can only thank them by paying it forward.
Simpson has devoted much of her time to helping shape national conversations around
human rights and LGBT issues. Her message to the next LGBT generation? I want you to
respect the past and imagine your future. Dont settle for anything short of full equality, but
know that there are those who have fought so very hard to get us where we are today.
Simpson has advice for young women who want to be confident and successful leaders,
too: Just be yourself. Dont try to fit into someone elses mold. The most value that you
bring to leadership is exactly what makes you you, and this makes you a good leader.
Dont miss your chance to meet Simpson at NCCWSL this year. Register today!
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This post was written by AAUW Educational Events Intern Imani Lewis.