Her Story
About Arria
Arria Hines is the Owner and Chief Executive Officer of Allegheny Science & Technology Corporation (AST), a woman-owned technology company she founded in 2009 after gaining valuable experience in the government contracting industry. Under her leadership, AST has grown into a trusted technology and energy solutions provider with approximately 130 employees, supporting critical initiatives for the United States Department of Energy and United States Department of Defense. The company specializes in applied science and technology, cybersecurity, enterprise IT, data and decision analytics, mission assurance, and program management, helping advance innovation across national security, energy, and government sectors, including nuclear energy and related fields.
As a business leader, Arria is recognized for her strategic vision, entrepreneurial mindset, and commitment to developing strong partnerships and high-performing teams. She attributes her success to embracing opportunities without fear, building meaningful relationships, and creating her own path through determination and perseverance. Her leadership approach is built on integrity, transparency, trust, accountability, and leading by example. She believes that great organizations are built by empowering people, encouraging collaboration, and consistently going the extra mile to deliver exceptional results.
Arria earned her bachelor’s degree in Accounting and Economics from West Virginia Wesleyan College in 1994 and her master’s degree from West Virginia University in 2009. She also holds a Project Management Professional (PMP) certification from the Project Management Institute. Beyond her role at AST, Arria serves on the boards of TechConnect West Virginia and West Virginia Wesleyan College and is actively involved with organizations including Women Impacting Public Policy, the National Defense Industrial Association, and the West Virginia Public Speakers Bureau. A passionate advocate for women in technology and leadership, she encourages young women entering the field to confidently take their seat at the table and own their contributions. She continues to champion innovation while helping organizations navigate the opportunities and challenges presented by rapidly advancing technologies, including artificial intelligence.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Arria
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to having the courage to embrace opportunities without fear, building strong and meaningful relationships, and taking ownership of my journey. I believe that success comes from being willing to step outside of my comfort zone, create my own path, and remain committed to continuous growth. By fostering trust, collaboration, and genuine connections with others, I have been able to overcome challenges, seize opportunities, and build lasting impact throughout my career.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to do it right the first time. This advice has guided me throughout my career by reinforcing the importance of attention to detail, accountability, and delivering quality results from the beginning. Taking the time to approach challenges thoughtfully, maintain high standards, and focus on excellence builds trust, strengthens relationships, and creates lasting success.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the industry is to believe in their abilities and recognize that they can accomplish anything they set their minds to. Take your seat at the table, own your contributions, and have confidence in the value you bring. Do not be afraid to share your ideas, pursue opportunities, and step into leadership roles. Your perspective, expertise, and voice matter, and embracing them will help create meaningful impact and open doors for future generations.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenges and opportunities in my field right now are driven by the rapid pace of technological advancement and the need to continuously stay ahead of the curve. As technology evolves, organizations must remain agile, innovative, and prepared to adapt to emerging solutions, including artificial intelligence. Understanding and effectively leveraging AI while maintaining a leading edge will be critical to driving future success, creating new opportunities, and delivering impactful solutions for our customers and communities.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are integrity, transparency, and trust. I believe that strong relationships and successful outcomes are built on being honest, dependable, and consistent in my actions. I strive to always show up, lead by example, and demonstrate a commitment to excellence in everything I do. Going the extra mile, supporting others, and following through on my commitments are principles that guide how I lead, collaborate, and make an impact.
Join Influential Women and start making an impact. Register now.