09/18/2026
Meet our support desk hero, Mary Waters! You may have spoken with her on the phone or asked her to help you when you needed her, and she was 100% there, hitting the ground running!
✨ Read a little glimpse of our interview with Mary about her 29+ years with Universal:
Q: What got you into the aerospace industry?
"Honestly, getting into the aerospace industry was a bit of a happy accident!
I walked through Universal’s door without knowing much about aerospace at all. I was applying for a newly created Administrative Assistant position in our Sales/Marketing Department, and somehow, the team discovered that I was a perfect match for their needs and goals. The rest, as they say, is history!
I spent my first four years in an administrative role, but along the way, I discovered that my real passion was our customers. I loved the challenge of helping them tackle tough problems, finding solutions, and celebrating those small victories together.
That passion has stayed with me throughout my career. When a customer calls just to say, “thank you,” it absolutely makes my day. Those moments are a reminder of why I love what I do — and why that happy accident turned out to be one of the best things that ever happened to me professionally."
Q: Favorite project you've had the opportunity to work on?
"Hosting the workplace food drives. 2016, Universal donated 2,000 items. The drives fostered friendly competition, and we all worked together towards a worthy cause."
Q: What are your hobbies outside of work?
"Glue Guns and Roses! Outside of work, you’ll most likely find me in my craft room!
Surrounded by paper-mâché pulp whirling in the blender, iron on its board pressing a seam, paintbrushes loaded with acrylics and oils, and a dozen creative ideas happening at once. That small room is my happy place. Whether I’m experimenting with something new or bringing an idea to life, there’s something about making things with my hands that makes me smile from ear to ear. It’s my way of relaxing, recharging, and, of course, having fun!"