Kathleen Cable

Administrative Secretary

Division 10: ISR and Tactical Systems

I first learned about Lincoln Laboratory through my son, who worked as a Wentworth co-op in Division 8 in 2007 and is now an employee in Group 66. When he would tell me about the Lab—the work environment, the idea of working on projects with a mission bigger than oneself, the opportunities for growth—I'd think, "I want to work there." I applied for openings and was hired as the secretary in the Systems and Analysis Group [Group 109, formerly 49]. Instantly I felt at home. I was impressed with the supportive, solution-oriented people who create a team atmosphere. The climate is not always that warm in the corporate world.

Currently, I work in the Division 10 office. It is a high-energy office. The division secretary Michelle Augeri is a terrific mentor. I provide administrative support for the division heads and projects. It is exciting to see projects as they progress from beginning to end. The team takes an idea and makes it happen. It is inspiring to be among people who are so incredibly dedicated to their work. Sometimes it gets hectic with meetings and appointments that are rescheduled multiple times, travel plans that change, sponsor visits, security clearances, and other things that come up. Everyone in the office has a great sense of humor, and I think that's what gets us through those challenging days.

The Laboratory also encourages you to learn and grow. I've learned to handle classified information, use the SIPRNet [Secret Internet Protocol Router Network], and to update classified systems. It is a lot of responsibility, but the Lab takes the time to provide the necessary training. This fall I'm looking forward to taking some classes, maybe communication and sociology, under the tuition reimbursement program.

There is nice variety in my work. Besides working on the technical programs, I have helped with the division's innovation competition, the division offsite at MIT campus, team awards, and recently the 60th anniversary committee. The anniversary committee is a great opportunity to meet and work with people from other divisions and departments.

Overall, it's the people who have given me a positive view of the Laboratory. I continue to be impressed by the longevity of many careers here. It's a testimonial to the fact that people enjoy their work and have been able to grow and move into new areas. I feel privileged to be a member of the Lincoln Lab team.

I am Kathleen Cable. I am Lincoln Laboratory.