RICHMOND, Va. –
Defense Logistics Agency Aviation hosted a three-day ‘Round Robin’ Jan 24-26, to familiarize new directors across Aviation and its 18 locations, on the different elements of the organization.
The event took place in Conference Room 108 of the DLA Aviation Operation Center on Defense Supply Center Richmond, Virginia.
“These events are important because the main thing is the relationships,” said DLA Aviation commander Air Force Brig. Gen. Sean Tyler. “Building that personal relationship with our Commanders, OICs, and Directors from the ISA’s, as well as here in Richmond helps us [DLA Aviation] get after warfighter readiness and align with the goals of the services.”
The ‘Round Robin’ was initially designed for Aviation’s ISA directors only but has since expanded to now include directors and division chiefs from across the organization.
The first one took place back in 2018, but due to social distancing polices and travel restrictions put in place by DLA headquarters due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the next event was held virtually in 2022.
“It’s good to be back in-person,” said Air Force Col. Daniel Willison, director of the DLA Aviation Customer Operations Directorate. “Last year this event was held virtually because of the pandemic, and it just wasn’t the same.”
In addition to the roundtable discussions, attendees took part in one-on-one engagements led by those within leadership roles throughout DLA Aviation. They also virtually attended the agency’s performance review hosted by Navy Rear Adm. Joseph “Doug” Noble Jr., director, DLA Logistics Operations/Commander, Joint Regional Combat Support
“Meetings like this are very important because it’s a great opportunity to network and meet the other directors face-to-face,” Willison said. “It’s just good to be able to talk with one another and see what other people’s hot rocks are and how we can all come together to provide support to the ISA’s.”
Tyler said while the ‘Round Robin’ is designed for the individual currently seated in a particular leadership position, this event can help shape the position for the next person. This is an opportunity for the current directors to tell senior leadership what works and what doesn’t.