When I was 12, I skipped school…but I wasn't really playing hooky. Instead, I spent my first day in the office of my father’s search firm, setting up new computers and installing software. I did such a great job that I was promoted to data manager—a great title for a painfully slow responsibility that involved scanning and sorting paper resumes into the company database. When I finally became a full-blown recruiter. I got to pick my niche…and it was a no-brainer.I have always been obsessed with exploration. When I watched Countdown: Inspiration4 Mission to Space… it was full-blown waterworks…Aerospace, satellite & defense is filled with war heroes and innovators that embrace the spirit and imagination of exploration. My clients and candidates are innovators and leaders willing to take risks to explore new frontiers and keep our world safe. The leaders I place are in operations, business development and finance. • 50% of the candidates I place are women; this is 25% higher than the industry average. I love the people I work with, and the results we achieve. • The feeling is mutual. 89% of first-time clients partner with me on additional searches within 6 months. It’s exceptionally rewarding to help clients reach new heights. • I helped a firm achieve government compliance within 120 days. This gave them the opportunity to execute strategy and achieve a $140 million NASA win. These results start with values--I value curiosity, integrity and ambition.I believe everyone should be safe and experience wonderment. To work with clients and candidates that spotlight these values is incredible, and I know I have only just scratched the surface.Katherine Jeraldkatherine@elraysearch.com(509) 881-9330Specialties: military (USN/USAF/USMC/US Army), aerospace, government contracting, electronics manufacturing, defense electronics, components, computer hardware, PCB, radar and sensor technology, satellite communicationsFocus: Operations: General Managers (GMs), COOs, Business Unit Directors, Program Managers/Program Management/Contract Management, Accounting & Finance, CFO/Chief Financial Officer, Business Development (BD) Sales, Human Resources, CHR