BAE Systems, Inc. Innovation, Technology & Agility

What practices does your team employ to foster innovation, and how have these practices led to more creative, out-of-the-box thinking?

At BAE Systems, fostering innovation is a core focus within engineering and across the business. While traditional methods such as lunch-and-learn sessions, technology roadmap planning sections, individual research and development, and private investment funding are vital to driving progress, these approaches are often guided by businesses area management and leadership priorities to align with overarching goals. 

A unique and forward-thinking approach, however, lies within the Empower Innovation program. Open to all employees, regardless of role or level, Empower provides a platform for sharing ideas through a simple online tool. Hundreds of ideas are submitted and reviewed each year, often in support of campaigns for strategic, needle-moving technology. Selected entries receive collaborative feedback, enhancing their potential, seed funding, mentorship and support to mature their technology, product or process into more mature business cases. This approach not only refines individual ideas but also propels innovative solutions into real-world deployment, embodying a companywide commitment to groundbreaking advancements.

How has a focus on innovation increased the quality of your team’s work?

A focus on innovation through the BAE Systems Empower program creates an avenue for great ideas to gain traction, mature and be implemented. As a recipient of resources through Empower, seed funds allowed me and a small team of engineers to design and build a prototype bi-directional power converter that otherwise might not have existed given higher-priority business investment efforts. The competitive nature of Empower, along with understanding that funding was direct from higher levels, really instilled a sense of pride and ownership with our team. Knowing the company entrusted and believed in us helped drive our desire to succeed. The quality and technology readiness level are significantly improved due to the program’s early recognition of its potential.

Additionally, my group has been developing new power electronic and high-voltage energy storage components and systems to support both core transit applications as well as adjacent market applications. I’ve been fortunate to be on the forefront of many of these efforts, exploring power and propulsion solutions for everything, from fuel cell buses and terminal tractors to several military applications.

How has a focus on innovation bolstered your team’s culture?

A focus on innovation has undeniably strengthened our team’s culture by fostering collaboration, mutual respect and shared purpose. Programs like Empower have provided a platform for diverse contributions, where every team member — regardless of role or experience — feels heard and valued. The transparency of the program, coupled with opportunities for feedback and mentorship, has created a sense of inclusivity and open dialogue, all of which are essential components of a strong team culture. 

Beyond driving technological breakthroughs, the initiative promotes a spirit of ownership and pride, as seen when our team successfully developed the bi-directional power converter. Such achievements are celebrated collectively, reinforcing camaraderie. Furthermore, the flexibility to explore adjacent markets and new technologies has allowed us to engage in meaningful work, making innovation at BAE Systems not just a goal, but a shared experience that empowers individuals and deepens team bonds.