2024 GMiS Luminaries

Education:  Masters in Electrical Engineering, George Mason University; Bachelors in Electrical Engineering, Stanford University

Over the last ten years, Miguel Matta has steadily progressed from a junior engineer to a respected and experienced manager.  Since 2019, he’s led a group of more than 20 high performing-engineers while also serving as an Acoustic Signal Processing expert.  

Miguel and his team conduct acoustic analysis and develop algorithms for sonar navigation and detection systems – core products at Lockheed Martin and part of a half-century continuum of undersea excellence supporting the U.S. and allied navies.  Over the years, he has worked closely with other experts to build up his signal processing depth on diverse domestic and international projects.

In 2016, Miguel was selected to the Lockheed Martin Advanced Technical Leadership Program, which accepts only 1 percent of applicants.  He also gained  experience with Business Development and Engineering Project Management, and he worked with company fellows in preparation for greater leadership roles.  Displaying intentional depth and breadth of experience accumulated over a short period, Miguel was selected to a First Line Manager role in 2019. In this role, he oversaw signal processing engineers working an acoustic modernization program, and he’s credited with driving significant automation and increased capability for the customer. 

Miguel’s shown tremendous aptitude at all tasks expected of a manager at Lockheed Martin, including hiring, mentoring, training,and leadership in all its forms.  He’s provided strong signal processing technical leadership and tasking for the program, and he’s proven to be a deft coach and subject matter expert. 

Following Miguel’s work on Acoustic Modernization, he took on a new challenge with the Undersea Surveillance program. Expanding his expertise into System  Engineering, he managed experts who developed the requirements and determined the development content for new capabilities and production to be delivered to the fleet.   He also took on leadership roles in planning facility lab expansion, growing yet another facet of his engineering toolset for project management in the process. Miguel has truly grown into a full lifecycle engineer capable of functional and project management, and his impact has proven to be critical to multiple programs and disciplines. 

Miguel regularly volunteers in STEM outreach, including Women in Engineering, Minorities in Engineering, and robotics camps.  He’s also been a leadership coach for Lockheed’s Lead First initiative, and he’s captained efforts to establish an Innovation Garage at his work site to provide makerspace resources for company employees.

Miguel also finds time to combine his passion for running with fostering wellness in the company by leading and supporting fitness runs around the facility, and organizing company-sponsored distance running events in the community. Time and again, he’s demonstrated that he cares deeply about his team by seeking opportunities to help them grow their skills and advance to leadership roles. Many have participated in Engineering Leadership Development programs thanks to his encouragement and support.