DLA Aviation –
Name: Gerry Rouse
Organization: Material Management Division with DLA Aviation at Oklahoma City
Years of Service: More than 27 years as a Marine and seven years as civilian employee
What is your job title, and what do you do, specifically? I am an inventory management specialist on the B-52 production depot maintenance line, working side-by-side with five Air Force employees that make up the “Core Team.” We work the problem issues both strategic and tactical that may arise on a daily basis.
What do you like most about your job? Every day is different. With the age of this weapon system, we are forced to face new challenges every day in our thinking and how we support our customer.
What kind(s) of training and education helps your work performance in your current role? More than 21 years as a Marine has taught me how to be aggressive and not take no for an answer, and my bachelor’s degree in business management has been instrumental in my professional growth.
If you could speak directly to the warfighters you support, what would you tell them? I would love to let them know that I am eternally grateful for their service.
What advice would you have given yourself 10 years ago? Don’t take things so personally.
What’s your biggest pet peeve? The statement “It’s not my job.”
What are some of your passions outside of work? My work with LifeTroops.tv, a non-profit faith-based organization working with veterans and helping them deal with morale injuries such as post traumatic stress.
What is your favorite military aircraft? Why? CH-53E. It is one of the first aircraft that I supported. It is big, strong and very fast for a helicopter and a lot of fun to ride in.
What is your proudest accomplishment? Being baptized at age 49
What type of music do you most enjoy? Christian rock
Have you had a mentor that helped you grow in your career? If so who, and how did they help? I have actually had two. Dave Sanders has always been encouraging and a very knowledgeable when teaching me how to provide good customer service. Carl Eggleston helped to teach me how to do my current job.