Role model profile--David Sullivan.

A long time employee at Raytheon, David Sullivan was recruited from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, where he earned a bachelor's degree in industrial engineering. David also has a bachelor's degree in physics from Dillard University. Born in Prichard, Ala., David is a principal system producibility engineer and is heavily involved in Raytheon's diversity efforts and recruiting and programs, as well as in his local community and church.

The co-chair of the Raytheon Diversity For People of Color initiative, David volunteers at various are middle and high schools, developing student interest in science and math. He is active in Raytheon's university recruiting program, working with students at more than a half dozen universities. In addition to his Raytheon-related school activities, David is presently a member of Townview's Science and Engineering Magnet High School's Site Based Decision Making Committee and as coach for an elementary school's Odyssey Hillcrest High School, including serving as chairman of the Parent Involvement Committee and as coach for an elementary school's Odyssey of the Mind teams. David also has coached little league football and served on the advisory board of the Thurgood Marshall Recreation Center for six years.

David also is very involved with activities within his church, Friendship-West Baptist. He has served as a co-chairman of the capital Stewardship Team, treasurer of the men's ministry, a member of the college ministry, and a member of the Count Team. In 1994, David assisted in the formation FW Empowerment Corporation (FWEC), a community non-profit organization affiliated with Friendship-West Baptist. FWEC assists with economic development, education, health and personal empowerment in southern Dallas. David serve as FWEC Executive Secretary. In addition, David is a founding member of the Dallas Metroplex Council of the Black Alumni Association and a member of Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

"Just like sports teams who select players, companies must male selections that give them the best opportunity for success. They look at past performance (a strong GPA get you in the door), experience (internships, research projects), key attributes (knowledge in key areas, communication skills), flexibility (ability and willingness to do multiple tasks, mobility), and whether you are a team player," says David, who won the 2003 Black Engineer of the Year Award for Community Service. "Think about what's in your resume or interviewing session that will cause a company to want to choose you as a part of their team."