Chippewa Valley Times

Barry Bauer, a project manager at Lockheed-Martin and a Menomonie resident, has played a pivotal role in the development of several key aerospace projects. Early in his career, Bauer was part of the team tasked with designing radar-evading leading edges for the Air Force F-22 fighter aircraft. The success of this project contributed to the F-22's status as a stealth jet.

Bauer's contributions extend beyond the F-22. He managed projects for other military aircraft such as the F-35, where he oversaw the integrated core processor project for its onboard computer. His experience includes merging IT systems during the formation of United Launch Alliance between Lockheed-Martin Space and Boeing Defense.

Reflecting on his work, Bauer stated, “When a plane flies, there’s an army of people you never see working behind the scenes to make it all happen.” His motivation stems from national security concerns: “Some of the threats out there are pretty sobering.”

Bauer recently led a design team that received recognition from Engineers’ Council with a Distinguished Engineering Project Achievement Award for developing Lockheed-Martin’s Hypersonic Reference Vehicle Application. This initiative supports UCAH — involving 119 universities and 214 partners — with $100 million funding over five years.

His efforts have also been instrumental in advancing hypersonic technology in collaboration with defense leaders and Senate Armed Services Committee members. He highlighted that “we began to harness the power of universities to do research and then transition results to industry.”

Before joining Lockheed-Martin, Bauer served six years in the Marine Corps as an aircraft hydraulics technician on planes like the F-4. Recognizing education as key to advancement, he pursued degrees at UW-Stout after his service.

Bauer's academic journey included earning an industrial technology degree followed by three master’s degrees and a doctorate. Alongside his professional achievements, he taught project management as an adjunct professor at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University for 16 years.

Reflecting on his career path, Bauer expressed that mastering each job prepared him for future challenges: “My goal has always been to master the job and get ready for the next one.”