Meet Harolyn Smith, a Material Specialist supporting the Component Shop in Mobile, Ala. In her role, Harolyn tracks parts status reports, shipments, and movements of needed parts.

Harolyn has worked at Airbus U.S. Space & Defense for 19 years. Before joining the company, she served as a material clerk and purchasing agent at ST Aerospace and Engineering.

A love of airplanes drew Harolyn to the aviation industry and continues to fuel her passion.

“My love and interest of airplanes drew me to this field,” Harolyn said. “I started by learning how to identify parts, read drawings and illustrated parts catalogs. Then I began purchasing them.”

Over the years, Harolyn has enjoyed being part of the evolving space and defense industry.

“I love the people and innovative ideas that help keep us moving forward as things continue to evolve.”

Harolyn finds motivation in the women she works alongside and sees growth in the industry.

“I am motivated to keep showing up and giving a 110% when I see these women,” she said. “The women who work in manufacturing and aviation are the reason I never give up.”

A piece of advice Harolyn would give to anyone starting their career is to not be afraid of saying yes.

“Don’t be afraid to take on a new project or task,” she said. “Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Never be complacent and always try to find ways to improve. Be teachable and trainable, even if you have a license or degree in a specific field.”

Harolyn’s favorite memory from Airbus U.S. was volunteering with Habitat for Humanity.

“Volunteering with the company for ‘A Day for Caring’ with Habitat for Humanity was incredible,” she said. “The event was sponsored by United Way, and it allowed us to help build homes for those in need.”

Outside work, Harolyn enjoys expressing her voice both literally and figuratively.

“Outside of work I am a church choir director as well as the director of the women’s ministry,” she said. “I love singing and listening to music, especially watching the sunrise at the beach.”