Her Story
About Carla
Carla Jo Drake is a seasoned operational and engineering leader with more than 35 years of experience at Idaho National Laboratory (INL), where she has built a distinguished career advancing infrastructure reliability, enterprise operations, and fire protection systems in support of the nation's energy and security missions. Beginning her career as a quality inspection intern, she steadily progressed through leadership roles spanning facilities management, information technology, business systems, and fire protection engineering. Her broad operational expertise, combined with an MBA from Purdue Global and a Bachelor of Business Administration from Idaho State University, has enabled her to successfully align technical excellence with strategic business objectives.
Throughout her career, Drake has been recognized for driving transformational improvements across complex, high-reliability environments. As Senior Manager of Fire Protection Engineering, she leads the modernization of INL's enterprise fire protection and detection systems while developing long-term strategies for facilities business systems. She previously established INL's inspection, testing, and maintenance program from the ground up, achieving full National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) compliance, and led the successful modernization of the laboratory's fire alarm communication infrastructure by completing a project originally scheduled for five years in only three. Earlier in her career, she also spearheaded major computerized maintenance management system initiatives and Six Sigma process improvements that generated millions of dollars in annual operational savings.
Known for her customer-centric leadership style, Drake is passionate about building high-performing teams, strengthening organizational culture, and creating sustainable operational excellence. Her accomplishments have earned numerous honors, including the Director's Recognition Award for Innovative Leadership, the Director's Award for Safety Excellence, the Leadership Core Values Award, and nominations recognizing her impact on management and operations. She is an active member of professional organizations including the Society of Women Engineers, Women in Nuclear, and the Energy Facility Contractors Group communities of practice. Beyond her professional responsibilities, Drake is committed to serving her community through volunteer work with local food banks, reflecting her dedication to making a meaningful difference both inside and outside the workplace.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Carla
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to embracing new opportunities, adapting to change, and working collaboratively to solve complex challenges. Starting as an intern in quality inspection, I gained experience across facilities, site services, IT, and fire protection, where I built programs from the ground up. One of my proudest achievements was leading the modernization of our alarm system communication pathways, completing a planned five-year, $12 million project in just three years through strategic prioritization and strong teamwork.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received is to never stop learning and to stay resilient. Although I entered the workforce before completing my degree, I continued my education while raising my children, earning a bachelor's degree in Business Management and later an MBA. That experience taught me that perseverance and lifelong learning create lasting opportunities.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I encourage young women entering this industry to lead with confidence and never let a traditionally male-dominated environment limit their potential. Your knowledge, resilience, and willingness to step forward can make a meaningful impact. Stay focused on your goals, embrace leadership opportunities, and remember that the most rewarding achievements are the ones that reflect your personal growth and the positive difference you make.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the greatest opportunities in my field is mentoring and developing the next generation of professionals. After 35 years in the industry, I find the most rewarding part of my career is helping others succeed, especially women entering the field, by sharing my experience and encouraging them to grow with confidence.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that matter most to me are making a meaningful difference, serving others, and giving back to my community. Whether it's improving systems at work, mentoring someone to achieve their career goals, or volunteering at local food banks, I find the greatest fulfillment in helping others grow and creating a lasting, positive impact.
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