Stephanie Sanchez

Stephanie Sanchez is a retired U.S. Marine who dedicated 22–23 years to military service before transitioning into her current role as a Navy contractor performing contracts work. Her transition from the Marine Corps to Navy contracting was relatively natural because of her familiarity with the Navy’s language, processes, and culture through the Marine Corps. After retirement, Sanchez initially explored opportunities in the civilian sector but ultimately felt a continued calling to serve. While pursuing her master’s degree in Engineering Management, she was selected for a fellowship program and completed an internship with a company staffed largely by retired military professionals, including an admiral and his team. That experience reaffirmed her desire to continue working with and for the government in ways that improve life for the warfighter.

Sanchez’s commitment to service has been shaped by both her military experience and her determination to challenge expectations. During her career, she served at a time when many women encountered attitudes suggesting they should support men rather than serve alongside them in combat-focused roles. She rejected that perspective and believed women should have the opportunity to contribute fully. Her own educational journey reflects that same determination. When she was advised to pursue business management because it would be easier, she chose Engineering Management instead and completed the master’s degree despite its demanding nature. Sanchez attributes her success to an innate drive to remain relevant, continue moving forward, and make a meaningful difference. Her experiences have reinforced her belief that positive contributions can help create a better world and, ultimately, reduce the need for conflict.

Outside of her professional life, Sanchez is a mother of two daughters and previously spent time as a stay-at-home mom before returning to pursue her master’s degree. During that period, she operated a small crafting business and used the income to support her children’s extracurricular activities. She continues to craft today, describing it as a form of therapy and “chicken soup for the soul,” and gives much of what she creates to others. Sanchez also supports Shelter to Soldiers, the organization that provided her service dog, and remains committed to helping whenever she is called upon. Passionate about encouraging women, she urges young women to pursue challenging opportunities, including demanding military careers, without allowing others to tell them what they cannot accomplish. She acknowledges that women may still encounter bias and other barriers but believes their responses can help create meaningful change. As she has progressed in her career, she has become especially intentional about supporting other women, celebrating their accomplishments, and ensuring their contributions are documented and remembered.