Lockheed Martin’s Digital Transformation: A Mission-Driven Approach

Introduction

Lockheed Martin operates at the cutting edge of defense technology, boasting a rich history intertwined with innovation and service. With nearly $72 billion in revenue in fiscal 2025 and over 122,000 employees, the company is committed to delivering advanced technologies that support national defense across multiple domains, including air, space, land, sea, and cyber. A pivotal figure in this journey is Maria Demaree, the company’s senior vice president of Enterprise Business and Digital Transformation and Chief Information Officer (CIO).

A Personal Connection

Maria Demaree’s connection to Lockheed Martin is profound, extending across generations. With her father, brother, and daughter also having worked at the company, Demaree emphasizes that for many employees, this isn’t just a job—it’s a calling. “It’s three generations for us,” she remarked. This familial legacy contributes to a strong sense of purpose that drives Lockheed Martin’s culture. “We have deep ethical values and a commitment to supporting our customers, many of whom are literally in harm’s way. That keeps us focused on why we do what we do.”

Two Roles, One Vision

In her dual role as CIO and senior vice president, Demaree balances the responsibilities of maintaining daily operations with the forward-looking vision of how Lockheed Martin will innovate. “It’s really two sides of the same coin,” she asserts. Under her leadership, the company is undergoing a modernization effort that connects various business areas, enhancing collaboration and efficiency.

For example, one initiative aims to unify the company’s supply chains, allowing engineers to find and share parts across divisions with just a single inquiry. This not only accelerates delivery but also reimagines how Lockheed Martin operates on a fundamental level. “We’re reimagining how the enterprise operates,” she stated.

A Hybrid Structure with Unified Goals

Lockheed Martin’s transformation is structured around four major business areas, along with enterprise operations providing essential shared services. Some functions remain federated, yet critical areas such as human resources and finance are being harmonized for consistency where value is added. The overarching goal is flexibility that allows employees to transition between functions seamlessly.

This digital transformation initiative is encapsulated in two key programs: 1LMX, focused on digital tools and processes, and 1LM, which aims to unite the company’s culture. “1LMX focuses on digital tools and processes,” Demaree explained. “1LM is about creating a common employee experience; what we call ‘hire to retire.’”

Business Acumen Meets Technology

What sets Demaree apart from many CIOs is her extensive experience outside of IT. Before ascending to her current role, she led Lockheed Martin’s National Security Space division, managing a substantial portfolio worth $6.6 billion. This rich experience grants her a unique perspective on technology investments, allowing her to frame requests in terms of business value. “I bring a mission-first, people-always mindset,” she noted, underscoring the importance of aligning technology initiatives with company missions.

Demaree advocates for talent rotation between IT and business roles, asserting that both sides gain valuable insights. “When technologists understand the mission, and business leaders understand IT, innovation accelerates,” she shared.

Balancing Legacy and Innovation

Lockheed Martin’s century-long history offers a strong foundation for transformation rather than a hurdle to overcome. Demaree expressed confidence in leveraging previous experiences and established trust while introducing innovative technologies like AI and data-driven engineering. “Any new programs are born digital, but we’re also infusing digital into existing ones,” she explained, indicating a balanced approach that honors the company’s legacy while welcoming disruption.

The Exciting Horizons of AI and Quantum Computing

Demaree’s lifelong interest in artificial intelligence has become a cornerstone of her current work. From an early age, she dreamed of a career rooted in computer science and AI. “AI will redefine how Lockheed Martin designs, builds, and maintains systems,” she claimed, anticipating new possibilities that synergy with digital engineering will bring.

Moreover, she holds a keen interest in quantum computing, recognizing both its potential benefits and the ethical considerations it brings. “We need to use them ethically and think carefully about how to counter their use,” she remarked, acknowledging the competitive challenges posed by adversaries also gaining access to such revolutionary technologies.

Lifelong Learning and Collaborative Culture

After over three decades at Lockheed Martin, Demaree’s enthusiasm for learning remains unabated. She engages in peer CIO groups and consumes podcasts about emerging technologies during her daily commute. “We’re all figuring this out together,” she asserted, illustrating her belief in shared knowledge as a vital part of ongoing innovation.

Her commitment to lifelong learning serves as an encouragement for others within the organization. “We are digital,” she said, encapsulating Lockheed Martin’s future-focused mindset, “but we’re also deeply human.” United by a common purpose, passion, and a commitment to deliver what matters most, Lockheed Martin continues to pioneer progress in defense technology.