As a young supporter of the Dawgs growing up in Jacksonville, Florida, Andrew Dill was oblivious to how interconnected his life would become with the University of Georgia—or the influence he would later create for his alma mater.
While he entertained thoughts of attending other universities, the choice was never genuinely debatable—deep down, he was always aware of where he truly belonged.
“I was raised as a Georgia fan; my father was a Georgia fan. I’ve been attending Georgia games since I was three years old,” Dill remarks. “My heart has always been with UGA.”
From his initial days on campus, Dill BBA ’06, AB ’07 discerned that no other university could rival the experience and network provided by UGA. He swiftly discovered a circle of influential mentors to steer him toward his future.
After completing his dual degrees in risk management and insurance, and political science, Dill moved back to Florida. He secured a position in insurance that ensured his financial stability.
However, this did not sit well with one of Dill’s most esteemed mentors, Earl Leonard ABJ ’58, LLB ’61, who serves as executive-in-residence at UGA’s Terry College of Business and was formerly a senior vice president at The Coca-Cola Company. Leonard provided straightforward counsel.
If you choose the position that offers the highest salary, someone else will surpass you because they gained valuable experience, Leonard advised him. In five years, they will outpace you due to the talent and expertise they possess to achieve success.
Leonard’s insights motivated Dill to redirect his career path. He found himself in the office of the late Sen. Johnny Isakson BBA ’66, where he served as a staffer and gained essential knowledge in government relations.
Then, another mentor, Trey Paris AB ’84, MBA ’85, opened a new path and guided Dill toward General Electric in California. He embarked on his journey at the intersection of business and politics, maneuvering through industry-shaping policies and forming connections with policymakers to influence and react to regulatory changes.
What UGA constructed in the College of Engineering here is outstanding. The caliber of students we’re hiring from Georgia—they’re not just exceptional engineers but also leaders.” — Andrew Dill, director of government relations at Lockheed Martin
Advancing through the ranks, Dill ultimately took on the role of director of government relations at GE until 2012.
That’s when Dill felt the urge to return to UGA. As the director of federal relations, he played a pivotal role in creating the Chambliss Leadership Forum, named after former Sen. Saxby Chambliss BBA ’66. This forum financed student involvement in the Washington Semester Program. Dill was also instrumental in establishing the university’s 40 Under 40 award. (Both Dill and his wife, Caitlyn Cooper Dill AB ’07, later received 40 Under 40 accolades.) He continues to provide mentorship to UGA staff and students alike.
Currently, Dill oversees government relations for Lockheed Martin’s aeronautics division based in Fort Worth, Texas, managing extensive U.S. operations, including a significant presence in Marietta. In this capacity, he collaborates with domestic and international partners; supervises major projects such as the F-16 fighter production line in Greenville, South Carolina; and directs initiatives within the innovative Skunk Works division, renowned for advancing and experimental aircraft technologies.
Dill’s responsibilities involve engaging with local, state, and federal government partners to tackle issues ranging from noise complaints to intricate aircraft deliveries. His position also requires collaborating with international defense representatives on the utilization of Lockheed Martin aircraft in national defense initiatives.
Although his work keeps him occupied, Dill consistently prioritizes contributing back to UGA, the institution he attributes to his achievements. He is a frequent guest speaker in classes instructed by Josiah Meigs Distinguished Teaching Professor Audrey Haynes ABJ ’87, MA ’91 and Richard B. Russell Professor Charles Bullock (another of his college mentors), and he maintains contact with Delta Hall, the hub for Washington Semester students in D.C.
Moreover, Dill collaborates closely with the UGA College of Engineering, which acts as a growing conduit for future employees of Lockheed Martin.
“What UGA has built in the College of Engineering here is remarkable,” he states. “The quality of students we’re hiring from Georgia—they’re not just exceptional engineers but also team leaders.”
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