Karen Malen-Hogle
Karen Malen-Hogle
Associate Technical Fellow - 3D Metrology Engineering
The Boeing Company
Karen Malen-Hogle has worked at The Boeing Company in Tool Engineering/Metrology for nearly 30 yrs. She started on the B-2 Bomber program at the same time computerized theodolites were making their way into the company. She’s worked varied and vast projects on the military and commercial sides of Boeing. Her areas of expertise are metrology processes, major assembly tooling, tooling for composite parts, composite part assembly and tooling additive manufacturing applications. Metrology has been a key component to the success of every project on which Karen has worked and the use of different instruments, software and applications have increased exponentially to touch all aspects of the production line.
Women In Metrology Survey Answers...
1. Tell us about the accomplishments that helped shape your growth/career. Was there a specific project that influenced your decision to join or continue down the path of metrology?
Learning about theodolites was enough to draw me into the field.
2. What was your journey like to get you to where you are now? Was there a particular challenge you had to overcome?
The journey has been exciting, interesting and fun! One of the early and most difficult challenges was implementing the use of metrology over the use of master gage tooling.
3. What is your favorite aspect of your role in metrology?
Getting to learn about, use and apply all the cool latest technology.
4. What is the most critical aspect of your role?
Getting it right the first time and every time.
5. Who was one of your mentors as you pursued your education and career?
My parents. My Dad believed his kids could be whatever they wanted to be and not be restricted by traditional gender roles. My Mom graduated with a BS in Chemistry in the 1950’s when it was more of an anomaly that a woman attended college. My Mom is a brilliant scientist and her recall is incredible. I will call her to ask if some solvent I’m using is safe. She will have me read the components and then will balance the chemical formulas and interactions in her head. Mom would help my brothers and me every day with our homework if we needed help. My parents taught me the value of a good work ethic.
6. What advice would you give to others who are considering a STEM career?
Just do it!!! The possibilities of careers is limitless. I love engineering and I love being in a high tech field. If I had to do it all over again, I would still pursue an engineering degree.
7. When did you get your first chance to work in the Metrology field?
I hired into The Boeing Company as a Tool Engineer and when I arrived, theodolite systems were just starting to be used so my tools were built with theodolites and shortly after, with laser trackers. This was my first introduction into metrology, well almost, I have used highly calibrated measurement devices for baking my entire life.
8. Describe the value that your efforts have delivered for the systems, products and processes.
Speed, efficiency, cost savings, decreased flow and streamlined production systems.
9. Is there anything additional you would like to add?
We seriously need more women in the technical fields. Melinda Gates, spouse of Bill Gates, stated there were more women going into programming 30 yr. ago then there are today. The percentage 30 yr. ago was 35% and today its 19%. I have no idea why we are going backwards.
