As an engineer in the Manufacturing Leadership Program, Vanessa manages work-in-progress control, prioritizes tasks for associates, resolves production issues, and drives continuous improvement projects at the Roosevelt Manufacturing Center in Scottsdale, Arizona.
Before even stepping foot in a college classroom, Vanessa Angel knew her path would include both math and science. Her love for problem-solving and passion for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) set her on a course toward interdisciplinary engineering. Inspired by her Colombian parents, who instilled values of hard work, dedication, and empathy, Vanessa's journey to General Dynamics Mission Systems began.
Building a Foundation
Vanessa's college years were marked by active involvement in organizations such as the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE), Society of Women Engineers (SWE), and Alpha Kappa Psi. It was during her senior year, at the SHPE convention, that she interviewed for the Manufacturing Leadership Program (MLP) engineer role at General Dynamics Mission Systems. The company mission to provide defense solutions resonated with her desire to make a difference. The rotational program within the MLP promised continuous growth and learning, aligning perfectly with her aspirations.
A Typical Day in the Manufacturing Leadership Program (MLP)
As a participant in the MLP, Vanessa’s day-to-day activities are as dynamic as her enthusiasm. Currently in a rotation at the Roosevelt Manufacturing Center, in Scottsdale, Arizona, she manages work-in-progress control, prioritizes tasks for associates, resolves production issues, and drives continuous improvement projects. Whether it’s creating training guides, implementing new layouts, or developing SharePoint forms for material forecasting, Vanessa’s role is integral to success. Her Capstone Project focuses on improving stockroom efficiency with innovative carousel systems.
A Passion for Manufacturing
Manufacturing, for Vanessa, is where designs come to life. It’s about improving processes, solving problems, and collaborating with a diverse team of professionals. Her leadership role in the MLP allows her to learn various aspects of manufacturing, drive continuous improvement and embrace the responsibilities that come with each role.
“I am passionate about the MLP because it allows me to learn different sectors of manufacturing while also finding ways to improve the process with continuous improvement and internal projects,” said the proud former Floridian. “It also allows me to be more open-minded of each role and responsibility within Manufacturing and allows me to work with all sorts of people that teach me new things every day. The MLP will help me develop personal, technical and leadership skills to one day prepare me to be a manager here at General Dynamics Mission Systems. I want to grow to be that support system for others and help develop others into the best version of themselves here at work.”
A Future of Contribution, Growth and Leadership
Vanessa thrives in the General Dynamics Mission Systems community, enjoying the support of coworkers and managers who fuel her growth. As the SOMOS Employee Resource Group Scottsdale site lead for the Hispanic Employee Resource Group, she organizes social, volunteer, networking, and professional development events. Co-leading ECrew, a partnership with the Boys and Girls Club, Vanessa coordinates STEM activities for middle school students, fostering the next generation of engineers.
Vanessa’s journey at General Dynamics Mission Systems is a testament to her passion for engineering and her dedication to making a difference. Her involvement in the MLP has been a period of growth, learning, and contribution. She encourages early-career engineers to join the program, emphasizing its benefits for those who love problem-solving, continuous learning, and community involvement.
