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On this episode of The Route Podcast, host Christopher Nascimento sits down with Charlotte Trakinskas, a seasoned program manager at Marshall Canada, to discuss her inspiring career journey. With extensive experience in the defense industry, Charlotte offers valuable insights into career development, the complexities of government contracts, and the personal growth that comes with embracing change.
Hands-on experience has been a cornerstone of Charlotte’s career. Her time at General Dynamics (GD) laid a strong foundation, where she learned the intricacies of the defense industry. Her passion for the field is deeply rooted in family history, further fueling her commitment to excellence. Now at Marshall Canada, Charlotte plays a pivotal role in modernizing the Canadian logistics fleet, overseeing project progress, and ensuring seamless team collaboration.
One of the defining moments in Charlotte’s career was her transition from GD to Marshall. While the change was daunting, it presented an invaluable opportunity for growth. Charlotte emphasizes the importance of taking risks and exploring different roles to find the right fit. Her foray into business development, for instance, provided her with a strategic perspective on the industry, enriching her expertise.
Charlotte sheds light on the structured nature of business development in the defense sector, particularly the complexities of bidding processes for government contracts. She underscores the value of building and maintaining relationships, both as a career strategy and as a means of navigating the multifaceted defense landscape.
Adaptability and Resilience: Learning to adapt to change is a skill Charlotte carried into her professional life.
Diverse Experience Matters: Starting on the production floor and progressing through various roles gave her a well-rounded perspective.
Taking Risks Pays Off: Embracing new opportunities, even when they’re intimidating, can lead to unexpected growth.
Relationships Are Key: Networking and collaboration are essential for career advancement.
Confidence Through Action: Confidence often stems from recognizing your capabilities and achievements over time.
Learning Is Continuous: Public speaking, engaging with others, and exploring new roles are skills that can be developed with practice.
Staying True to Yourself: Authenticity in a professional environment is vital for long-term success.
Charlotte Trakinskas’ tenure at General Dynamics and her current role at Marshall Canada highlight the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and lifelong learning. Her insights into the defense industry and her reflections on personal growth offer invaluable lessons for anyone navigating their own career route.
Tune in to this episode of The Route Podcast to hear more about Charlotte’s inspiring journey and gain practical advice on building a fulfilling career in any industry.