The finalists for WashingtonExec’s 2024 Pinnacle Awards were announced Sept. 20, and we’ll be highlighting some of them until the event takes place live, in-person Nov. 21.
Next is Mary Clum, president of the product & space systems portfolio at BlueHalo, and finalist in the Space Executive of the Year, Private Company, category. Here, she talks about recent achievements, shares career advice and more.
What were your key achievements in 2024?
In 2024, my most foundational commitment was to the incredible people who work tirelessly to support one another and our customers at BlueHalo. Under my leadership, we not only advanced critical infrastructure for national security but also fostered a culture of collaboration and innovation. A major achievement was expanding our production capacity, investing in automation, and aligning our supply chains to ensure we can meet growing demands while maintaining the highest standards of quality, safety, and affordability. This dedication to both our mission and the people behind it has been key to driving BlueHalo’s continued success in delivering essential national security capabilities.
What are your primary focus areas moving forward, and why are they critical to the mission?
Moving forward, my primary focus areas are accelerating BlueHalo’s leadership in the space domain, particularly in advancing multi-mission applications such as resilient communications, onboard processing, and space-based intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance. These areas are critical because space is becoming an increasingly contested environment, and maintaining U.S. superiority requires us to deliver cutting-edge, proven technologies that our warfighters can rely on.
A key priority for me is also the continued development and market readiness of BlueHalo’s next-generation laser communication solutions. These innovations provide faster, more secure communications while reducing mass and power consumption, which will strengthen our competitive edge and ensure we are equipping our warfighters with the advanced tools they need to succeed in the face of future challenges.
What’s your best career advice for someone looking to follow in your footsteps?
If you’re looking to follow a similar career path, my biggest piece of advice is to understand that focus and determination can turn any decision into a reality. The journey isn’t always straightforward, and there will be challenges along the way, but if you stay focused on your goals and maintain a clear vision of where you want to go, you can achieve incredible things. Be intentional in your decisions, surround yourself with people who challenge and support you, and remain determined, even in the face of obstacles. Your commitment to your vision will be the driving force that helps you succeed.
Fun Fact: What’s something most people don’t know about you? (Hobbies, passions, etc.)
I am an accomplished race walker, competing at various levels of the sport.