[image1-right]Former ALA Spectrum Scholar and LEEP graduate, Sally Ma has held a variety of jobs in the information professions since completing her MS. She now enjoys tackling new challenges and learning new things as the lead technical librarian at BAE Systems.
Where do you work and what is your role?
I work at BAE Systems, a global defense, security, and aerospace company, as the lead technical librarian in Chesapeake, Virginia. My main role is document control for technical documents and engineering drawings. I manage all aspects of the library, including research, cataloging, collection development, SharePoint management, and training staff.
What do you like best about your job?
As a defense contractor, I take pride in my work and the products and services of my company. Prior to my current position, I did not have a technical background and working in an engineering department means that I am always learning something new. For example, I’ve discovered that AutoCAD can be quite fun! The job has a high degree of autonomy with increasing responsibilities. I enjoy tackling the changes and challenges that come with constant new projects. Plus, I have awesome coworkers!
How did GSLIS help you get to where you are today?
I am extremely grateful for the support I received at GSLIS, especially as a recipient of the American Library Association’s Spectrum Scholarship. I completed the LEEP program and was introduced to working in virtual teams and various technologies for online collaboration, many of which I have used throughout my career. My degree has helped me obtain a wide range of roles, including advancement researcher, youth services manager, and information literacy instructor. These roles may seem quite different, but they all share a basic foundation in library and information science that I learned at GSLIS.
What advice would you like to share with GSLIS students?
I recommend that GSLIS students take at least a few technology-focused courses. My Web Design and Construction for Organizations course was quite challenging but turned out to be the most useful and practical for my career so far. While a student, expand your network by taking advantage of student rates for conferences and professional organizations like the American Library Association and Special Libraries Association. Lastly, be open-minded about your career path. I never saw myself as a cataloger in grad school, but here I am today cataloging complex technical manuals and loving it!
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
I enjoy spending my weekends exploring new outdoor adventures with my fiancé and Spock, our miniature Dachshund who loves long hikes. I also enjoy exercising, baking, and DIY projects around the house.
What’s next for you?
I enjoy writing and social media and plan on starting a food or lifestyle blog this year. You can follow me on Twitter @realsallyma to learn more about it!