BATTLE CREEK, Mich. –
Paul Riggs is a property disposal specialist for the Defense Logistics Agency Disposition Services Norfolk, Virginia, site. Riggs participated in group 38 of the Pathways to Career Excellence Program from 2019-2021.
In your own words, how would you describe the PaCE program?
An excellent way to reposition talent from the field and bring fresh eyes in – those who can find another way of successfully executing reverse logistics (because everyone loves the cradle and forgets the grave).
What was your first position with DLA?
I was a materials examiner and identifier for over a year, but now I have almost 5 years with our agency.
What was your position before coming to the PaCE Program?
I worked as a contractor for several years and prior to that I served 20 years of active duty in the U.S. Navy – both the reserve side and active duty.
Do you have a favorite memory from your time in the program?
The Training and Operations Simulation Center was always fun, especially since Don Zimmerman is such a great host. My favorite memory was when Group 38 took a site visit to DLA Disposition Services Anniston. Every site has their challenges, but the personnel seemed to really enjoy working together and are proud to do their part in supporting the Warfighter. I’m always interested in the learning process and appreciate when personnel take the time to explain what they do. They also throw a mean luncheon!
If there was one thing that could’ve been different for you in the PaCE program, what would it be?
There seems to be a fear that we are some type of informant to headquarters, but once those barriers were lowered, our coworkers in the field were happy to share their job experiences and teach us how they perform their job so successfully.
What would you say is the most important quality to succeed in the PaCE program?
Commitment and courage to see things through. It was difficult financing two residences while away from my family and we are now making better progress from staying the course.
Editorial Note: The Pathways to Career Excellence Program for DLA Disposition Services is a two-year program that takes PaCERs through all of Disposition Services and its processes to learn as much as possible about the directorate. The first year takes place at DLA Disposition Services Headquarters in Battle Creek, Michigan, and the second year either takes place in Battle Creek for Contracting PaCERs or at an assigned field site for Property Disposal PaCERs. PaCERs begin as general schedule 7s, move to GS-9s at the end of their first year, and graduate the program as GS-11s. There are multiple pathways to becoming a PaCER, including being hired internally, as a recent graduate, or from military service.