Latoya Osborne is a Program Manager operating where precision, accountability, and influence intersect. Within the Land & Air Defense Systems sector at RTX (Raytheon), she leads complex international defense programs, overseeing multimillion-dollar initiatives requiring disciplined execution and global diplomacy. She is the Founder of IncubatHER, an initiative equipping and elevating women in leadership. Latoya serves as a board member of Dependable Hands, volunteers with Village of Promise, serves on the Huntsville Hospital Foundation Development Council, and is actively engaged at her local church. She builds institutions that endure—advancing industry, strengthening community, and redefining leadership in The Rocket City.

What advice would you give your 22-year-old self?

You are not behind! In The Rocket City, we’re surrounded by launches, but not every purpose moves at rocket speed. Trust YOUR path. There is purpose in the pace.

What do you love most about living and working in Huntsville?

Huntsville still feels like home to me, even as the city continues to grow. What I love most is the balance—you can do work here that rivals opportunities in much larger cities, but still go home to a community that feels personal and connected. Having been raised here, I’ve had the privilege of watching Huntsville evolve while growing alongside it. It’s the kind of place where your next-door neighbor might be a rocket scientist, and no one thinks twice about it.

What motivates you on hard days?

On hard days, I remind myself why I started and focus on the next step forward. Like many people, I sometimes have to fight the urge to quit. In those moments, I laugh and repeat a line from Finding Nemo: “Just keep swimming,” a simple reminder that progress often comes from consistency, discipline, and choosing not to give up.

How do you like to spend your time outside of work?

Outside of work, I enjoy slowing down and reconnecting with things that keep me grounded, whether that’s tending to my vegetable garden or caring for my flowers. I also love traveling and attending my son’s baseball games. Most importantly, I value time with family and serving my community through my church, Saint Bartley Church, and mentoring younger generations.

Who has been the biggest influence on your career, and what valuable lesson did they teach you?

My parents have had the greatest influence on my career. My mom once told me there was something unique about me and that if I ever became President of the United States, she wouldn’t be surprised—leaving me with the belief that there was no such thing as an unobtainable goal. I was also raised around strong women and continue to be guided by mentors like Mrs. Paula Taylor and Mrs. Pamela Scott, reminding me that if you want to go far, you go with others.