Voicing Our Values: Ethics in Engineering Competition

For mechanical engineer Lauren Sieverding, embodying Lockheed Martin’s foundational values - do what’s right, respect others and perform with excellence - started before her first day on the job. As an undergrad at Loras College, Lauren entered the Lockheed Martin Ethics in Engineering Case Competition. Little did she know, the experience would kick-start her career at Lockheed Martin, supporting directed energy 21st Century Security.

A year after Lauren participated, we hosted our 7th annual competition with over 70 colleges and universities. Each academic institution, represented by a two-student team and accompanying faculty, presented their solutions to a fictional problem involving ethical, business and engineering dilemmas. 

This competition emphasizes the reality of today’s highly competitive marketplace where a single misstep can have major consequences. It compels students to think about the importance of performing with integrity in the workplace and the various dilemmas that can arise, especially in the fast-paced world of defense tech. 

Lauren’s Takeaways

What was your favorite part of Ethics in Engineering?

My favorite part was the opportunity to engage in friendly competition with the other schools. It was enjoyable to put our skills to the test in an environment that encouraged the use of various abilities beyond technical expertise.

The thrill of competing not only allowed us to showcase our knowledge, but also emphasized the importance of effective communication, teamwork, and adaptability in navigating complex ethical dilemmas as more information was given to us throughout the competition. It was a great experience that highlights the multifaceted nature of success in the field of engineering, beyond just technical proficiency.

What specific aspects of Ethics in Engineering resonated with you and made you realize the importance of ethics in the workplace?

What resonated with me is how the scenario was crafted to mirror a real-world complex situation. I realized how easily detrimental consequences can arise if people don’t follow ethical decision making. This helped me understand the necessity for people to have the ability to perform with integrity within the workplace.

How has your perception of ethical behavior evolved since participating in the competition and in what ways do you think it’s influenced your day-to-day now that you work here?

Participating in the competition shifted my perception of ethical behavior by helping me to understand that ethical behavior doesn’t always have a clear solution but is a compass-guided action towards outcomes that align with values and principles. I’m more conscientious in my day-to-day when decisions are made, whether its decisions made by myself or others.

What steps do you think employees can take to enhance ethical awareness and practices?

I believe that employees can enhance ethical awareness by regularly conducting ethics training and being more open to conversation. Reminders from leaders that employees should feel safe and encouraged to voice concerns about ethical issues they encounter are also important.