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News | Dec. 21, 2018

Tapping into a prime hiring resource - Operation Warfighter intern hired at San Diego distribution center

DLA Distribution Public Affairs

Navy Petty Officer Heather Fournier served at DLA Distribution San Diego, California, while enrolled in the Department of Defense Operation Warfighter Internship Program from September 4, 2017 to March 3, 2018. 

While working as an intern in the OWF program, Fournier performed a variety of administrative and financial functions in support of the distribution center’s command division. 

The OWF program provides transitioning sailors an opportunity to shape their futures by learning skills and experience directly transferable to job opportunities across multiple federal agencies. 

The San Diego distribution center has hosted four OWF interns since August 2017 and has another OWF intern in the pipeline.  After completing their internships, most interns returned to their home of record.  However, hiring an OWF Intern into a full time position is a win for both the sailors and agencies involved. Due to her veteran status, as well as participation in the OWF program, Fournier was able to qualify and be selected as San Diego’s resource and financial manager.

“I am able to use all of the training and skills obtained during my OWF internship experience in my new position as a management analyst.  This made the transition into Federal employment very fluid and less stressful,” said Fournier.

Melissa Meador, DLA Distribution OWF internship coordinator, explained, “Our distribution center in San Diego has been able to tap into this local resource of prime candidates to expand the diversity of their workforce and bring in dedicated and eager veterans. The command and regional OWF coordinators have a strong working relationship which will continue to serve both our Warfighters and our agency in a positive light.   We look forward to offering more opportunities, for other veterans in the future.”