Margarita Howard Uses Mission Appeal to Recruit Talent for HX5

“Let’s get to the moon.” That is one of the lines Margarita Howard uses when she talks to potential recruits about working at HX5. The defense contractor competes with technology firms for scarce STEM workers, and Howard’s case to candidates rests heavily on the meaning of the work.

HX5, which Howard owns outright and leads as CEO and president, provides STEM-focused support services to NASA and the Department of Defense. It employs more than 1,000 people in 34 states and 90 government locations.

Competing Without Matching Salaries

Commercial technology companies often pay more than defense contractors and can hire without waiting for security clearances. Clearances alone can take months or years. Home Business Magazine, which profiled Howard, noted that HX5 uses its mission-driven work to stand apart from commercial options.

Howard tells recruits they should be excited every morning about the specific program they support. Her examples range from lunar goals to missions overseas.

That message may resonate with younger candidates. A Deloitte study cited in the article found 77% of Gen Z respondents consider working for a company with matching values vital. Gen Z, born between 1997 and 2012, is projected to make up roughly 30% of the workforce by 2030.

Support Beyond the Pitch

Margarita Howard has backed the mission message with practical changes. HX5 offers hybrid work in roles where it makes sense, while keeping strict security standards. It has also brought in instant messaging, interactive project management, and new tools and workspaces. Howard said the company has seen Gen Z thrive in digital-native environments.

The company still prefers experienced hires, especially those who have supported NASA or the Defense Department.

Retention offers some proof that the approach works. Some HX5 employees have stayed 15 years, according to Margarita Howard, at a company that reached its 20th anniversary in 2024. Long tenure like that is uncommon among younger workers, who change jobs more often than earlier generations did. Read this article for related information.

Learn more about Margarita Howard on https://www.f6s.com/member/margarita-howard