Spencer Stucky is currently a Contracts Negotiator for Lockheed Martin Space. Prior to joining Lockheed Martin, he worked as a Program Assistant to the Wilson Center’s Science and Technology Innovation Program (STIP), where he focused on emerging technology policy topics, such as AI, cybersecurity and 5G. He is a graduate of the M.A. in International Affairs program from GW’s Elliott School of International Affairs, where he studied the nexus of technology and national security, as well as took courses in data science. Spencer earned a B.A. in Political Science with a minor in Spanish from Cal Poly SLO. He is a native of Northern California and currently resides in San Francisco.
What is your current position? What are your favorite and/or challenging responsibilities?
My current position is Contracts Negotiator for Lockheed Martin Space. Some of my favorite aspects of my work include being surrounded by cutting-edge technology innovation in the space sector. Additionally, no day is quite the same — bringing new challenges and problems — which require thinking outside of the box and creative solutions.
How does your current position compare to what you thought you would be doing when you first started your degree at the Elliott School?
I always had an interest and a dream to join the defense contracting sector, and work on space-related technologies, specifically. However, going into the Elliott School, I was going back and forth between a couple of different career trajectories. After much thought, I decided to focus on the link between government and technology innovation, which put me on my current career path and led me to my current role.
What part of your career do you find most rewarding and why?
I would say, again, working on the forefront of space innovation and dealing with some of the world’s most difficult technological challenges. Additionally, having the opportunity to support the national security of our country creates a strong sense of purpose for the work we do.
How has your Elliott School graduate degree been valuable?
My Elliott School degree has been valuable in a variety of ways. Namely, it provided me a strong knowledge foundation of government/national security topics, as well as provided me with technical skills that I use on a daily basis in my current role. It also proved to be immensely helpful for building personal and professional connections while studying in the Washington, D.C. area.
What was the most rewarding aspect of your time at the Elliott School?
The most rewarding aspect of my time at the Elliott School was without a doubt the people I met and the friendships I made. The community and location of the Elliott School make it a unique place to build both personal and professional relationships for a lifetime.
What was your favorite part about living in the Washington, DC area?
I think having the ability to work in policy or government, venture over to Capitol Hill to catch a Congressional briefing, and then walk down to your class and be taught by some of the foremost experts in the field. It’s an incredible academic and professional environment to be in and a great opportunity to learn both inside and outside of the classroom.
What is your favorite place you have ever travelled?
I recently traveled to Peru and hiked Machu Picchu – which was definitely one of the most incredible places that I have visited to date. However, those that know me know how much I love Sun Valley, Idaho, which my family and I visit annually.
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The #ElliottProud profile series is managed by the Elliott School Office of Graduate Admissions and highlights graduate program alumni to answer common questions posed by prospective, incoming, and current students. For more information on this series or to submit questions, e-mail the Office of Graduate Admissions at esiagrad@gwu.edu.The views expressed by students profiled do not necessarily represent those of organizations they work for, are affiliated with, or the Elliott School of International Affairs.
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