My role at Lockheed Martin puts me in contact with extraordinary

Hear the words of Marillyn Hewson, who bore the mantle of guiding one of the world’s great enterprises, and who said: “My role at Lockheed Martin puts me in contact with extraordinary leaders in many fields – from science and engineering to philanthropy and government. And since we also work closely with our nation's armed forces, we tend to reflect a lot on leadership and how we can inspire successful teamwork, cooperation, and partnerships.” In her statement lies a truth as enduring as the stars: that greatness is not found in isolation, but in the gathering of minds, the forging of bonds, and the weaving of many strengths into one.

Her words call us to remember that leadership is not the solitary act of one figure upon a throne, but the chorus of many voices joined together. Teamwork, cooperation, and partnerships are the pillars upon which enduring achievements are built. For a single engineer may dream of a design, but it is through the hands of many that the design takes form. A single general may chart a course, but it is the united courage of soldiers that secures victory. Thus, Hewson’s reflection mirrors the ancient truth: unity magnifies human effort beyond measure.

Consider the tale of Pericles, who guided Athens during its golden age. He was surrounded not only by soldiers but also by philosophers, artists, and builders. The Parthenon rose not from one man’s mind, but from the partnership of architects, sculptors, and citizens working together. Pericles knew, as Hewson reminds us, that great leaders are those who inspire others to cooperate and transform vision into reality. Where there is no partnership, even the most brilliant plan falls to dust.

So too in the realm of battle we find this truth. The Second World War was not won by generals alone, but by the combined might of nations—scientists who built, engineers who devised, workers who labored, and soldiers who sacrificed. Without this vast cooperation, tyranny might have prevailed. The legacy of that unity is proof that when people are bound by shared purpose, the impossible becomes possible.

Hewson also speaks of the privilege of encountering extraordinary leaders in many fields—science, engineering, philanthropy, government. Here is another truth: leadership is not the domain of one sphere. The general and the philanthropist, the scientist and the statesman—all are leaders in their own right, and when their wisdom is joined, the world benefits. A nation or company that listens only to one kind of leader grows narrow; one that welcomes many kinds grows strong.

The meaning of her words, then, is clear: to lead is to inspire, not to command. To guide is to bring others into harmony, so that the mathematician, the soldier, the giver, and the builder may see themselves not as rivals, but as companions upon a shared road. Partnerships are the true engines of progress, for no single hand can carry the weight of destiny.

The lesson we must take is this: in our own lives, seek not only to shine alone, but to shine together. Whether in the workplace, in family, or in community, honor the strengths of others, and add your own without pride. Build bonds of trust, for trust is the soil where cooperation grows. When conflict arises, remember that unity of purpose is greater than division of ego. In this way, you too may practice the leadership that Hewson speaks of—leadership that uplifts, unites, and endures.

Therefore, let her words be engraved in your heart: true leadership inspires teamwork, fosters cooperation, and forges partnerships. It is the gathering of many into one, the weaving of different threads into a single fabric, strong enough to endure storms and bright enough to guide future generations. Walk in this wisdom, and you will not only lead—you will create legacies that time itself cannot erase.