The Lizard on the Launchpad: A Framework for Technical Leaders in Disagreement

Description

Technical disagreement is one of the most uncomfortable moments in engineering leadership, and one of the most important. When the data points toward real risk and the business is heading a different direction, something primal kicks in. The stakes feel personal. 

The tension feels like a threat. Most engineering programs never prepare you for what to do next. In this session, Lisa Akers draws from her essay "The Lizard on the Launchpad" and her experience leading NASA's Orion program to share a practical four-move framework for navigating high-stakes disagreement with integrity.  

Participants will learn how to put their technical concerns clearly on the table, get curious about what's driving decisions at other levels of the organization, commit to a path forward without abandoning their professional judgment, and bring their teams through uncomfortable territory without leaving anyone behind. This session is for engineers, technical managers, and program leaders who have ever had to say "I disagree, and I'm still here to help us succeed." 

Participants leave with a framework they can use before their next hard conversation. *This workshop is part of the NMA Chapter #999 Monthly "Launch & Learn" Leadership Speaker Series. 

Register Here: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/7317801556827/WN_nnl4l6dKQ6KLpRTw4M9y1g#/registration