Cherish Austin, a senior principal human factors engineer at Northrop Grumman, has distinguished herself by making significant contributions to aerospace and mechanical design engineering. She has successfully analyzed structural assemblies and developed more efficient designs for system components and assemblies. Her expertise in strategic deterrent systems reflects a deep understanding of both technical and human factors, a skill set she has honed through years of hands-on experience and advanced education.
Mrs. Austin holds a Master of Science in human factors from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, earned in 2023, and a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering, cum laude, from The University of Alabama in Huntsville. Her academic achievements have equipped her with a comprehensive approach to engineering challenges, blending technical precision with an understanding of user experience. Her commitment to continuous learning and service sets her apart in the field. She values feedback, actively seeks areas for improvement, and prioritizes collaboration across program segments. Colleagues frequently turn to her for guidance, and she remains dedicated to fostering a culture of mutual support and knowledge-sharing.
Building on this strong foundation, Mrs. Austin began her career at Northrop Grumman in 2020 as a principal design engineer, a position she held until 2024. During this time, she solidified her reputation for excellence in engineering design and analysis, contributing to key defense programs. In 2024, she was promoted to senior principal design engineer, her title prior to assuming her current role. Her journey to Northrop Grumman came after a successful tenure at Boeing, where she was a design and analysis engineer and a structural design engineer. Her earlier position as an engineering technical support specialist laid the groundwork for her advanced technical acumen.
Mrs. Austin’s engineering career followed an impressive military background. Then-Cherish Croft served in the U.S. Navy from 2001 to 2012, beginning as a machinist’s mate, nuclear, aboard the USS John C. Stennis, CVN-74, and later transitioning to a sonar technician aboard the USS Sterett, DDG-104. Her service also included administrative duties at the Center for Personal and Professional Development in the Greater San Diego Area, where she developed key leadership and organizational skills. Her military experience instilled a strong sense of ownership and responsibility, which she continues to apply to her engineering career.
Throughout her professional journey, Mrs. Austin has embraced personal and professional growth. She emphasizes the importance of building strong relationships and credits her success to seizing opportunities, no matter how small. A pivotal moment in her career occurred at Boeing when she volunteered to manage the coffee fund for her program. This seemingly minor task allowed her to showcase her organizational prowess and foster connections across departments. Years later, during the COVID-19 pandemic, a colleague who remembered her positive attitude and initiative reached out with an opportunity at Northrop Grumman, leading to a significant career advancement. This experience underscored her belief in the power of saying “yes” to opportunities and maintaining a positive outlook.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Mrs. Austin is active in civic and community organization initiatives. She is a member of the Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society and The American Legion, demonstrating her commitment to academic excellence and veteran advocacy. Her dedication extends to her church, where she has contributed to the choir, worship team, and fine arts group. She has supported children in Zimbabwe for more than a decade, mirroring her deep sense of global responsibility.
Moreover, Mrs. Austin was recently recognized by the Rocket City Boxing Club, managed by coach Allen “Snoop” Martin in Huntsville, Alabama, for her outstanding leadership as the instructor of the gym’s large group boxing fundamentals class. Leading up to receiving this honor, Mrs. Austin had been attending the gym for several years and was asked to step in to lead the class in physical conditioning. Thankful for having her leadership skills recognized, she seized the opportunity to challenge herself and others through physical endurance and strength training for class attendees from 6 to 60 years old.
Mrs. Austin balances her professional life with being a devoted mother. Her son is a significant source of inspiration. Along with cherishing time spent at home, she enjoys attending concerts and watching movies with friends. She dreams of traveling the famed Route 66 in an RV during retirement, blending her love for adventure with her desire for freedom and relaxation.
Looking ahead, Mrs. Austin aims to pursue opportunities in human factors engineering within the government or federal sector. She envisions designing systems that prioritize the end-user, contributing to international defense programs while securing long-term retirement benefits. Her goal is to achieve a harmonious blend between professional ambitions and personal fulfillment.