40 Under 40: Samantha Mason is a BIW supervisor with a desire to mentor

PHOTO / tim greenway Samantha Mason is a test planning supervisor at General Dynamics Bath Iron Works.

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Samantha Mason, 25 Test planning supervisor, General Dynamics Bath Iron Works Read about all the 40 Under 40 honorees and a special event to recognize them.
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Significant professional accomplishment: Becoming a supervisor of the Test Planning Group at BIW. To take that significant step early in my career, in a highly technical and historically male dominated role, is something I am extremely proud of.

Current state of mind: I’m excited about where I am in my career and the opportunities that exist today in manufacturing. I am looking to learn more, hone my craft, and continue to seek out progressive responsibility within BIW.

Passion project: My passion is being a mentor. I have a younger sister early on in her high school career who shares similar strengths, weaknesses and abilities as I did at that age. I hope to provide her continued guidance so that she can reach her potential.

‘Lightbulb’ moment: Discovering that passion is a product of perseverance and not the other way around. When I was initially appointed to take on a role within the Test Planning Group, I knew nothing about Test & Activation and dreaded the project assignment. After putting my head down and becoming one of the leaders in the field, the journey, hard work and dedication required really built my appreciation for this role.

Audacious goal: To become a director at BIW, which is underneath a vice president for a specific department.

Favorite quote: “Every action you take is a vote for the person you want to become. No single instance will transform your beliefs, but as the votes build up, so does the evidence of your new identity” — James Clear, in “Atomic Habits.”

Influential book: “Dare to Lead,” by Brené Brown. While the book resonated in the way I view leadership and vulnerability, I had the privilege to attend a “Dare to Lead” training workshop that helped reinforce the concepts.

Favorite podcast: “ReThinking,” with Adam Grant. I enjoy the diverse discussions with the underlying theme that great minds challenge each other to think differently.

Best way to recharge: I enjoy spending time outside going on long walks, hiking or biking. I also recharge by feeding my creative side by drawing, painting or trying out a new craft.

At age 60: Professionally, I’d like to be a mentor to the next generation of women in manufacturing. On the personal side, I see myself retired early, spending time with loved ones and traveling. Perhaps watching the Northern Lights in Reykjavik, Iceland.