Her Story
About Alexis
Alexis Smith is a Talent Acquisition Specialist with over 21 years of experience in recruiting. After earning her bachelor's degree in English from San Diego State University in 2003, she began her career in nonprofit work before transitioning into recruiting more than 20 years ago. For the past seven and a half years, she has worked in the defense industry for a contractor in Camarillo, California, where she handles full-cycle talent acquisition of cleared professionals supporting Navy contracts in areas such as mission planning and electronic warfare software, as well as intelligence community needs on the East Coast. Smith develops workforce strategies, manages talent pipelines, collaborates with senior leadership on contract requirements, oversees vendor relationships, and achieves a 95 percent retention rate among hires who typically remain with the company for at least three years. She has completed SHRM management courses and previously served as president of the Delta Gamma West Los Angeles Alumni Association from 2014 to 2018, where she supported philanthropic efforts including service for the Blind Center.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Alexis
01What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Don't stop pursuing your dreams even if you are the youngest on a team. I had challenges in my first job in nonprofit because I was successful and a director was envious, but I stood firm. Even today as the youngest on the corporate ops team, I persevere because age doesn't matter. Once you keep proving yourself, the judgment subsides and people see your value.
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