Lockheed Martin executive, a Clarkson graduate, dies

Michele Evans, a Clarkson University graduate who was serving as aeronautics executive VP at Lockheed Martin Corp. (NYSE: LMT), died on New Year’s Day, the firm announced Saturday.

The company’s news release didn’t list a cause of death.

Lockheed Martin is a defense contractor headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland that operates locations in suburban Syracuse and in Owego.

With more than 34 years of experience in the defense and aerospace industry, Evans led a “significant number” of programs in support of the U.S. Air Force, Army, Marine Corps and Navy; as well as for commercial and international military customers. She also was actively involved in Lockheed Martin’s diversity and inclusion initiatives, serving as the executive sponsor for the Women’s Impact Network.

“The entire Lockheed Martin team was saddened to learn that Aeronautics Executive Vice President Michele Evans passed away on New Year’s Day,” James Taiclet, president and CEO of Lockheed Martin, said in a company statement. “Throughout her career, Michele led some of the most important programs that ensure the security of our nation and its allies and help make our world a safer place. Her example was an inspiration to those of us fortunate enough to have worked with her closely, and her leadership in the aerospace and defense industry will have a lasting impact for years to come.”

Evans graduated from Clarkson University with a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering. She served on the boards of the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum and Girls Inc. Evans was also a member of the advisory board of Clarkson’s Coulter School of Engineering.

She is survived by her husband, David, and two sons, Clark and Parker, Lockheed Martin said.