How These 3 Leaders Are Uplifting Others in Aerospace and Security

Supporting others in the workplace is a common topic of discussion, but what are some actionable steps to create an environment where everyone can thrive? Anne Woepse, R&D Manager of Space Products for Ansys Government Initiatives (AGI), knows that providing empathy and support during both successes and challenges is essential for building strong teams capable of solving complex problems. 

For the past two years, Woepse has managed a team of software developers and aerospace engineers who develop Ansys space products, including the Orbit Determination Tool Kit and Systems Toolkit (STK). She debugs any issues that may arise, works with the company’s developers to eliminate potential roadblocks, and collaborates with other department managers to drive success. 

“Letting your team know that you have their back when things may go wrong promotes the confidence to tackle intricate obstacles,” she tells Fairygodboss. “The complex problems we face daily require us to approach our jobs as a team; our success depends greatly on this mindset.” 

Her colleague, Becky Johnson, Senior Manager of Application Engineering, agrees that team building is key to her success in managing the Digital Mission Engineering Ansys Customer Excellence (ACE) team, which supports Ansys’s largest Federal Aerospace & Defense Enterprise accounts. Building close relationships with her direct reports and colleagues helps her better understand their goals and challenges. “By getting to know them on a deeper level, I can mentor, develop, and guide them in a personalized way, tailored to their unique strengths and aspirations.” 

Valuing each team member’s talents is essential for creating robust and resilient teams. Madison Luckenbaugh, Security Program Director and Facility Security Officer for AGI, appreciates how Ansys recognizes and promotes each team member’s contributions, including her own. “I’m proud to work in a field where my organizational, compliance, and communication skills are valued and highlighted. In a field full of brilliant minds, I’m treated as an asset to the company,” she shares. “Ansys values confidence and intuitive thinking, which can only be fostered in employees that feel supported and encouraged.”

Here, these leaders tell us more about how Ansys has supported their career growth, offer more valuable advice on empowering fellow women in the workplace, and share their insights on how leaders are shaping the future of aerospace. 

To start, can you tell us more about mentorship's role in your career? How can women in leadership roles support and mentor the next generation of female talent?

Woepse: I’ve been fortunate to have remarkable female mentors. I’ve relied on the advice and expertise of mentors whose careers have spanned decades. Women supporting women is a hallmark of Ansys’ culture and mentorship, particularly during the first few years of a young engineer’s career. 

Keeping the lines of communication open can be enormously beneficial to a new engineer. The most important aspects of providing this support are being as available as possible and showing vulnerability. It’s important to share your experiences — both good and bad — while showing what steps have led to your advancement. 

Luckenbaugh: Mentorship is critical in this field. Becoming a member of the National Classification Management Society and engaging in their professional development and mentorship programs has made an incredible impact on my ability to act effectively despite the quickly changing government rules. 

Networking with professionals in the field allows you to maintain your role as a specialist while conducting all of the industry-relevant duties as a generalist. You don’t need to be an expert in everything, but you need to know where and who your resources are to solve problems. 

Johnson: I develop strong relationships with the people I collaborate with. By understanding their motivations, challenges, and goals, I can provide support that helps them grow professionally and personally. This fosters a sense of trust, accountability, and mutual respect, ultimately leading to stronger collaboration, higher engagement, and a more empowered team.

How has Ansys’ culture of development helped your career growth?

Johnson: I’ve participated in an internal performance coaching program at Ansys. I thoroughly enjoyed the experience with my life coach. I met with her weekly, and she provided valuable resources, tools, advice, and mentorship for personal and work situations. I was able to take tools back to my team and implement them. 

Woepse: The women in technology community is very important to me. After being a member for about a year, I was nominated to help co-lead North America WIT. This has introduced me to many amazing women across the company who I wouldn’t have interacted with before joining. They provide a safe space for discussing critical issues faced by women. The employee community  is open to everyone and has created a welcoming environment for women and supporters to come together and address the future of women in our industry.

Luckenbaugh: Ansys values unique experiences and ideas. There is a community group for everyone. I take advantage of the weekly Bible studies; this engages another side of my brain and supports my teammates outside of my typical job duties. I feel connected and bonded in the ONE Ansys family because I can be myself and add value to the company because of my abilities and background.

Let’s talk about the culture at Ansys. What’s your favorite aspect of it?

Johnson: The culture at Ansys is a massive reason people choose to stay for their entire careers. From the office environment to social events throughout the year, team sports, March “Month of Fun” activities, various cultural appreciation activities,  employee communities, team-building events, holiday fun, and celebrations of life events and milestones — the culture has a lasting impact on anyone who has been a part of it.

What advice would you give other women who are looking for meaningful work? 

Luckenbaugh: It’s important to find a career path that rewards you for being yourself. Find a position that challenges you to improve each day, provides opportunities to test your skills, rewards you for the small things, supports you outside of work in the endeavors that mean the most to you, and encourages you to try new things. 

Be willing to engage in continuous learning opportunities. Never say no to a new certificate. Engage in professional communities and find a mentor or many mentors in the field. 

Woepse: Don’t hesitate to take on a new or unfamiliar role in your company. When an opportunity presents itself, take it, seek guidance if necessary, and appreciate the growth you experience — even if it’s initially uncomfortable.  

The most memorable career advice I’ve received is, “Know your worth.” Have confidence that you’ve earned your seat at the table because you have worked hard to get there.

What are your tips for women who want to help advance the careers of those around them? 

Luckenbaugh: 

Encourage everyone to communicate often and in front of an audience. Don’t be afraid to speak up. You have value to add.

• Be early to every meeting room to check in with your coworkers or subordinates. Get to know them as people outside of the office, and always ask others how you can support them.

• Freely share helpful resources like books or podcasts. Always share notes that can benefit others and relay new professional development opportunities. If you’re invited, extend the invite to those around you.

Woepse: 

• Advocate for others. If your colleague isn’t part of a conversation they should be included in, speak up.

• Support one another — be there for the successes and failures. Making a safe space to fail is as important as celebrating a victory.

How do you see this industry evolving in the next decade, and what role do women leaders have in shaping that future?

Johnson: The aerospace industry is undergoing a significant transformation driven by advancements in technology, sustainability, and global connectivity. Key trends include the push for greener aviation technologies, such as electric and hybrid propulsion systems, and the development of autonomous aircraft. There is also a growing focus on reducing carbon emissions, with companies investing in alternative fuels and sustainable aviation practices.   

Women leaders are increasingly influential in shaping the future of the aerospace sector. In traditionally male-dominated fields, women are breaking barriers and driving change. Women who are presidents, chief operating officers, astronauts, and vice presidents in the aerospace industry are paving the way for future generations of women in aerospace. They are not only advancing technical achievements but also influencing policies. Their contributions are crucial to making the industry more dynamic, innovative, and accessible.