Jessica Holland

Associate Technical Staff

Group 42: Surveillance Systems Group

Aristotle said that “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.” Early in college, this famous quote made such a strong impression on me that I decided it was my motto to live by. I had "Excellence is a habit" posted everywhere to remind myself that it is not “practice that makes perfect,” but rather it is PERFECT practice that makes perfect.

I initially joined Lincoln Laboratory as a college intern in 2007, and because of my positive experience, I applied for a full-time position after I graduated in spring 2008. My work in the aviation domain was challenging and interesting, especially because I am a pilot. Also, the culture of excellence here at Lincoln Laboratory complemented my own ideology. I felt inspired by the dedicated people working here.

Currently, I am a member of two teams supporting aviation safety projects—
Runway Status Lights (RWSL) and the Traffic Alert and Collision Avoidance System (TCAS). My work on RWSL, a prototype technology aimed at preventing runway incursions and accidents, involves technical-performance and human-factors assessments, and pilot and air traffic controller outreach and training — all work that benefits from my having a flight background. TCAS, an airborne collision avoidance system used on most passenger aircraft today, also involves technical and operational performance assessment and extensive interactions with pilots, air traffic controllers, and international stakeholders. I really enjoy both the technical and operational aspects of the projects within the aviation domain.

Another dimension to my experience at the Laboratory is community involvement through science, technology, engineering, and mathematics educational outreach. I believe that future solutions and innovation lie with the youth who will be the world’s next scientists, engineers, and policy-makers; however, I also think that many kids need guidance to help them achieve success through positive exposure, mentoring, and opportunities for exploration. We must encourage today’s youth to consider how their interests, talents, and curiosity can contribute to their self-fulfillment and to solving global challenges.

I have also been involved with internal outreach efforts. Being on the Lincoln Laboratory New Employee Network (LLNEN) committee has been very rewarding. I believe that everyone shares a common characteristic — wanting to feel included and to know they and their work are important and make a difference. LLNEN’s mission is to welcome newcomers, express that we are happy they are here, and help give them a sense of equality, importance, and belonging. While LLNEN assists with some of the logistics in their transition, we aim to make new employees feel they are part of the team because each individual is an asset to the Laboratory.

In my personal life, I am always looking for the next challenge because, to me, trying something new or simply working very hard to accomplish a worthwhile feat is exciting. I am never satisfied with the easy or mundane. One of the best feelings comes from successfully expanding the envelope and getting out of my comfort zone! That same enthusiasm holds true for my professional life as well. There is no shortage of pressing problems that need solutions, and knowing that the work I do is important keeps me motivated to continue working hard and striving for that “perfect practice.”

I am Jessica Holland. I am Lincoln Laboratory.