Three Gen Z Demands and How Margarita Howard’s HX5 Answers

Research on Generation Z points to three recurring workplace expectations: meaningful career progression, technological sophistication, and shared values. Defense contractors that ignore those priorities may struggle to hire. Margarita Howard, sole owner, CEO, and president of HX5, has tried to address each one.

Her company supplies science, technology, engineering, and mathematics support to NASA and the Department of Defense. More than 1,000 employees work for HX5 at 90 government locations in 34 states.

Technology and Values

On technology, Howard has modernized internal communication with instant messaging, interactive project management, and workspace updates. She has also pursued artificial intelligence and cybersecurity early, using AI for proposal writing and audit documentation.

On values, HX5 leans on its mission. A Deloitte study found that 77% of Gen Z respondents consider it vital to work for companies whose values match their own. Howard tells recruits they should be excited about the programs they support, whether the goal is getting to the moon or completing work overseas.

Growth and Flexibility

Career progression is a tougher fit for an industry known for hierarchy and lengthy clearance processes. HX5’s retention offers some evidence of opportunity, though. Some employees have stayed 15 years at a company that celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2024. Many managers hold advanced degrees, and women make up the majority of the management team.

Flexibility rounds out the picture. Howard has introduced hybrid models where possible, though she insists security standards remain “very strict.”

The stakes are clear. World Economic Forum research shows 38% of Gen Z respondents are likely to quit their jobs within a year. Johns Hopkins University projects the generation will make up approximately 30% of the workforce by 2030.

Howard summed up her stance simply: “We’re excited about Gen Z, and certainly we’ve tried to adapt as much as we can to their needs and what we’re seeing as their wants.” For Margarita Howard, adapting to that generation is now part of running HX5. Refer to this article for related information.

Find more information about Howard on  https://www.itsecurityguru.org/2025/11/12/what-will-defense-contracting-look-like-in-10-years/