Nicci Van Matre
Nicole “Nicci” Van Matre is a senior electrical engineer at LCR Embedded Systems, where she specializes in electrical schematic and PCB design for rugged, embedded systems. With a deep focus on backplanes, chassis, and integrated architectures, Nicci brings both technical precision and an artistic sensibility to her work—viewing circuit boards not just as functional systems, but as carefully crafted designs. She collaborates closely with multidisciplinary teams to take products from concept through production, adhering to strict industry standards while ensuring quality, manufacturability, and performance.
Nicci began her engineering career after earning her degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from the University of Florida in 2008, joining the Department of Defense immediately upon graduation. Over nearly a decade in aerospace and defense, she contributed to fleet-wide programs including F-16 aircraft modifications, earning internal recognition for her work. Her career path was shaped by resilience as much as expertise—balancing early motherhood, financial hardship, and later a medical retirement in 2018 following a severe illness. Through determination and rehabilitation, she returned to engineering, reaffirming her belief in adaptability and perseverance.
Today, Nicci balances her role at LCR Embedded Systems with entrepreneurial pursuits, including launching her own design business and operating a furniture retail website. She values independence, family legacy, and strong professional networks, and remains committed to building opportunities that blend creativity with engineering rigor. A member of IEEE and a longtime advocate for women in technology, Nicci’s story reflects grit, reinvention, and a relentless drive to turn adversity into innovation.
• University of Florida- Bachelor's
• Internal/DOD Award
• Perfect Attendance Award
• IEEE
• Mensa
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to an early love of problem-solving and technology inspired by my father, an electrical engineer, which shaped my curiosity, work ethic, and commitment to continuous learning.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Try. Take opportunities, build your network, and don’t let others define what you can or cannot do.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Independence, resilience, and honoring family legacy guide how I approach both my work and my life, along with a strong belief in building authentic relationships and a trusted professional network. Outside of work, I value balance—making time for creative outlets, caring for my pets, and using the flexibility of remote work to invest in personal projects and long-term entrepreneurial goals.