I have been part of Booz Allen’s evolving technology business since I joined the firm nearly 30 years ago. My first assignment was to write simulation software for the complex missile defense system of systems.
From there, I continued to take on more complex and challenging roles in software delivery, IT strategy, and systems engineering.
On a personal note, my husband and I and our two sons enjoy all Washington-area sports, and are diehard fans of the Washington Nationals and the Redskins.
Recognized for providing IT strategy, architecture, and systems engineering services to clients across the Department of Defense (DoD), Mickie Bolduc is a leader in Booz Allen Hamilton's IT business. Her primary market responsibilities include the Office of the Secretary of Defense, DoD agencies, and combatant commands.
She and her team focus on assignments in the following areas:
Mickie has led projects for numerous state and federal government organizations including the Defense Information Systems Agency, the Department of Justice, and state transportation departments, as well as for telecommunications providers and other commercial businesses.
Since she began with the firm in 1988, Mickie has been recognized with a Woman of Distinction award by the Women's Forum and Workforce Diversity Council for women who inspire others and who exemplify strong character. She was also a member of the project team that earned Booz Allen's prestigious Professional Excellence Award for work on the Docklands Light Railway System engineering and integration contract.
Prior to joining Booz Allen, Mickie focused on system simulation development and engineering analysis for the DoD at Advanced Technology, Inc., and BDM International.
She has a B.S. in mathematics from Mars Hill College, and an M.S. in mathematics from Clemson University.
What makes you passionate about your work at Booz Allen? A couple of things come to mind. First, the missions we support are essential to our national defense, national security and to citizens at home and around the world. I can get my head and my heart around the missions. Second, the people. The colleagues I work with and the clients I have had the good fortune to support are truly motivating. They bring so many different perspectives that I’m constantly learning new things and expanding my own thinking. Third is Booz Allen’s culture itself which encourages collaboration, entrepreneurship, and a work ethic that I value.
What draws you to Defense work? I have always been drawn to DoD missions because I truly care about the work and the outcomes. I never served in the military, but I have real respect those who have. I like to think of the work I’ve done at Booz Allen as my contribution to national service and the DoD. The work is both interesting and important.
How does Booz Allen help clients plan for their futures? From a systems delivery approach, we are specifically talking to clients about open platforms, open environments, and new ways of contracting for technology services. Clients don’t want to be tied to a single vendor product anymore. They want to have the flexibility to quickly adopt new, better solutions as soon as they become available. That agility is key in the technology business, for us and the government.
How do you keep people motivated? I keep people motivated by allowing them to do what they enjoy and what they’re good at, while pushing them to take on new challenges that expand their experience base. There are a lot of paths you can take in your career, and the agility of our firm and our culture encourages people to take on new roles as you progress. I encourage people not to fear those situations but instead to jump in and make the most of each new experience. You really don’t know what you can learn and accomplish until you get immersed in each new situation.
What do you wish you knew when you were a young professional? I wish I knew how to work smarter—not harder. There’s always more to do, so I didn’t have the right work/life balance. Over time, I figured out where to spend my personal time, what I can influence along the way, and when to leave things alone that are outside my control.
How do you mentor young women at Booz Allen? I enjoy talking to young women about my 25 years as a working mother. I’ve been part of the Women’s Agenda here at Booz Allen and have mentored many young women over the years. Also, every time I visit a Booz Allen office I take extra time to meet with the women there. We talk about career paths, the importance of relationships, gender differences, and life and job choices. I value the advice and lessons learned that other women leaders shared with me over the years, and I want to continue paying that forward.
Booz Allen’s people-focused culture is a cornerstone of our history and how we’re able to create an amazing workplace. Learn more by exploring our current openings.
