Describe your job.
I’m responsible for the day-to-day operations at Kaiserslautern and Germersheim, Germany, as well as Djibouti, Africa. I ensure the sites have the manpower, equipment and logistics needed to support the warfighter.
Your AOR?
We cover most of the European Union and Africa for any disposal solutions needed to support the U.S. military and Department of Defense agencies.
How long have you worked for the federal government, including military service?
I have worked for the federal government and U.S. Army for 24 years. I served in the Army for eight years as an armor officer and I have been working for DLA Disposition Services for the last 16 years. I started with DRMO Mechanicsburg in 2006 as an expeditionary GS-9 Disposal Services Representative.
Favorite thing about your job?
My favorite part of work is the interaction with our customers. Supporting the warfighter is the best job you can have!
Good advice you’ve received?
Do what is right even when nobody is looking.
Any good DLA memories?
My first deployment to Forward Operating Base Speicher, Iraq, is my best memory. We worked long days to ensure we could complete our mission and support the warfighter. We did not have any local nationals working for us, so we had to do all the work ourselves.
A characteristic you believe every leader should possess?
Compassion for your teammates and your job.
A time you knew your efforts were making a difference?
When I was in Balad, Iraq, and the base commander personally asked for me to stay and assist in the closing of the base before it was turned over to the Iraqi military. I was the last DLA employee on the base. The last flight left the day after I flew to Kuwait.
How do you approach change?
Change is a given. You must adapt/embrace change to stay relevant in your job.
What keeps you motivated?
Working with our customers and seeing how well our employees take care of them daily. It’s a pleasure walking into one of our warehouses or offices and seeing the interaction we have between our customers and employees.
Biggest current challenge?
Making sure my site has the right number of employees to give the world-class service that is expected of DLA Disposition Services.
What was your first job?
Working as a dishwasher and lifeguard assistant at a cheerleader camp in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Not a bad job for a 12-year-old.
Any hobbies?
Hiking, traveling, and golf are my hobbies. Every year I look forward to traveling to a country that I have not been to before. I have traveled to 70 countries so far, and really would like COVID to go away so I can continue to travel!
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DLA Disposition Services is celebrating its 50th Anniversary by reflecting on its mission, culture, and workforce. This series is highlighting leadership and employees throughout the agency, across the globe. Visit the historical page to learn more about the MSC and its history.