June Spotlight: From Marine to Data-Driven Leader  

At STEERBRIDGE, we proudly recognize the exceptional talents and experiences of our team members, especially those who have served our country. This month, we’re highlighting Shawnna Veitenheimer, a Marine Corps Veteran who transitioned from military service to a leadership role as the site lead and senior database administrator for the MCAS Cherry Point Fleet Data Team. 

Shawnna’s journey exemplifies how military experience can seamlessly transfer to the private sector. She now leads data-driven projects that support the F-35 program, leveraging her expertise to drive mission-critical initiatives. 

From the Marine Corps to Data Leadership  

Shawnna dedicated 21 years to the Marine Corps, serving as an aviation maintenance data specialist and data analyst. During her career, she gained invaluable experience at duty stations across the country, including Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Marine Corps Air Station New River, Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Edwards Air Force Base, and Naval Air Station Pensacola. 

Throughout her service, she worked with aircraft platforms such as the CH-53, MV-22, AV-8, and F-35. Each assignment allowed her to refine her skills in data management and operational readiness while adapting to diverse mission requirements. 

When she retired, Shawnna did not initially plan to pursue a data-focused career. However, after learning about STEERBRIDGE’s mission to deliver actionable data insights to the fleet, she recognized an opportunity to apply her expertise in a new way. 

“During my time in the Joint Strike Fighter community, I saw how essential accurate data is to mission success,” Shawnna explains. “STEERBRIDGE’s approach to addressing those challenges felt like the right fit for me.” 

Leading the Fleet Data Team at Cherry Point  

Now, as the leader of the Fleet Data Team at MCAS Cherry Point, Shawnna manages data operations that directly support the F-35 program. Her responsibilities include: 

    ✅ Coordinating daily operations to align data initiatives with leadership’s objectives. 

    ✅ Managing a team of analysts and engineers to maintain data integrity and accuracy. 

    ✅ Transforming raw data into actionable insights to drive strategic maintenance and logistics decisions. 

Shawnna’s role involves data validation, troubleshooting, and refining dashboards to ensure data is both reliable and actionable. Every data set must tell a clear story that empowers decision-makers to act swiftly and effectively. 

Driving Mission Readiness With Data

For Shawnna, her work on the F-35 program goes beyond data analysis. It directly impacts mission readiness and operational success. 

“Our work provides leaders with reliable data that supports critical decisions,” she says. “Every maintenance decision needs to be backed by accurate, timely data.” 

One of Shawnna’s proudest accomplishments involved identifying discrepancies in part usage data that caused maintenance delays. By addressing data flow issues, her team improved supply chain responsiveness and aircraft turnaround times, ultimately enhancing fleet readiness. 

“We’re not just processing data,” she says. “We’re transforming data into actionable insights that empower Marine Corps leaders to make mission-critical decisions with confidence.” 

Applying Military Leadership to Data Management 

Shawnna’s leadership style draws from her Marine Corps experience, where she learned the value of effective communication and adaptability. 

 “In the Marine Corps, I learned that every team member responds to different leadership styles,” she says. “At STEERBRIDGE, I adapt my approach to each person while maintaining focus on the mission.” 

Shawnna prioritizes clear communication and mission alignment with her team. By ensuring that every team member understands the broader mission, she fosters a culture of accountability and excellence that extends to every project. 

Continuing to Serve: A New Mission 

For Shawnna, working at STEERBRIDGE allows her to continue serving the Marine Corps community through data-driven solutions that enhance mission readiness. 

“STEERBRIDGE reignited my passion for data by showing its tangible impact on Marine Corps operations,” she says. “Here, my military experience isn’t just acknowledged—it’s actively leveraged to drive outcomes.” 

Shawnna is also focused on her own professional development. She is pursuing cloud data management certifications and working toward her Project Management Professional (PMP) certification, further expanding her technical expertise and leadership capabilities. 

A Word from Leadership 

Rob Schroder, STEERBRIDGE’s CEO, shares his perspective on Shawnna’s impact: 

“Shawnna embodies the mission-driven leadership we value at STEERBRIDGE,” he says. “Her ability to transition from military service to data leadership reflects her exceptional adaptability and commitment to excellence. She plays a vital role in our work with the F-35 program, and her contributions reinforce our commitment to supporting Veterans in the private sector.” 

Join Our Team

STEERBRIDGE fosters a mission-driven culture that empowers Veterans like Shawnna to thrive, lead, and make a lasting impact. 

If you’re a Veteran or a mission-focused professional seeking a high-impact role, explore opportunities at SteerBridge today.