Yvonne's initial career involved working at Douglas Aircraft Company, where she gained experience in applied mathematics and the burgeoning field of rocketry during the post-World War II period.

Yvonne transitioned to Research Analysis Corporation, where she worked on classified projects and gained further experience in propulsion systems. During the 1950s, she had the distinction of being the only woman in a group of 200 engineers working on a classified project.

Yvonne's most famous invention, the electrothermal hydrazine thruster, was patented in 1966. This innovative and efficient rocket propulsion system significantly improved satellite station-keeping and orbital positioning. This became one of the most successful inventions for station keeping thrusters. In 2022, it was inducted into the Space Foundation Hall of Fame.

Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Yvonne worked as a consultant and engineer for various companies and organizations, further developing her expertise in rocket propulsion systems and contributing to numerous space missions.

In her later career, Yvonne dedicated time to mentoring young engineers and sharing her knowledge through teaching. She was a strong advocate for women in STEM fields.