Emberle Pearson, Workforce Development Supervisor at Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD) Lakehurst, was named one of the 40 Under 40 by Women of Color Magazine. The magazine said the list includes STEM leaders “already making significant contributions to shaping technology for the future.”  

Pearson was recognized for her work overseeing engineers, logisticians, and IT specialists at Lakehurst and for her time mentoring more than 50 entry-level acquisition employees. The magazine also highlighted a video project Pearson worked on as part of Lakehurst’s recruiting efforts with historically Black colleges and universities, “leading to an increase in diverse candidates.”  

“It's always exciting when one of our own gets national attention, and Emberle deserves this honor,” Jack Martenak, NAWCAD Lakehurst acting executive director, said. “From her start at Lakehurst as an engineer to now, Emberle has devoted her career to supporting the warfighter while helping to foster a more diverse and inclusive workforce.” 

Pearson called it “an honor to contribute to impacting the next generation of STEM professionals at Lakehurst.”   

“As a female, Hispanic and Black engineer, I represent and celebrate our Command’s commitment to diversity of people and thought,” Pearson said.    

Pearson, a graduate of Manchester High School, earned her bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Villanova University in 2013. After graduating from the Pennsylvania university, Pearson started at Lakehurst as an engineer in 2013 before transitioning to her current role in 2021. During this time, Pearson also earned a master’s degree in mechanical engineering from North Carolina State University.