COLUMBUS, Ohio –
Kaitlynne Freitas is a current member of the Defense Logistics Agency Land and Maritime Pathways to Career Excellence program. She began her PaCE journey in 2023 and will graduate this fall as a contract specialist.
Why did you first apply to the PaCE program? I had been working for DLA as a Post Award “1105” purchasing agent for a year while I worked on completing my undergraduate. Upon graduating, I applied for the PaCE program to challenge myself and continue building my career and knowledge in the contracting discipline.
What is your professional background? Prior to working for DLA, I was working in the Fitness Industry as a certified personal trainer. I started my government career as part of the Fitness Center staff on the installation where I was able to network with many individuals from different disciplines. Contracting held my interest as the day-to-day seemed to be constantly different and the work engaging depending on the issues one tackles.
What have been your favorite parts of the PaCE program? I have been greatly enjoying the camaraderie between myself and fellow pacers. My class is a mix of pre- and post-award contract specialists, so it has been great being able to have people to bounce ideas off of and to grow and develop together.
Can you share an example of how you’re helping (or learning to help) the warfighter? I have recently joined the Counterfeit Detection and Avoidance Program team where I review traceability documentation for the Federal Supply Class 5961s and 5962s. I am very proud of this work as these parts are crucial for all types of systems within the defense supply chain and making sure we procure the right item makes it so the warfighter can continue to defend life, liberty and freedom.
What would you say is the most important quality to succeed in the PaCE program? Be curious and not afraid. Someone once told me to not be afraid of my work because “everything is fixable.” I have taken this advice seriously and I have seen my confidence grow in decision making and problem solving based on my autonomy to work issues on my own. Curiosity has helped me grow in the program as I always look for the “why” in everything and anything, which helps me find solutions to issues and understand my job and others better.
In your own words, how would you describe the PaCE program, and what can you gain from it? The PaCE program allows for growth and development in a safe and efficient environment. Coming into DLA can be quite overwhelming, and the PaCE program provides the guidance and tools one needs to succeed, from day one with system introductions to further down the road with job training and expectations. PaCERs have so many resources from the start, and it’s been a highlight of my professional career to be a part of this program.
What are your plans for your future in the agency? I want to continue to support the warfighter anyway I can. Some aspects of the job that interest me are rotations and deployments. My goal is to be a well-rounded “1102” contract specialist so that I can help move the agency into the next century like those who came before me. I pride myself on being a “go-to” person and want to continue to improve myself personally and professionally to help others.
Editorial Note: DLA Land and Maritime’s Pathways to Career Excellence program is a two-year program based in Columbus, Ohio, that provides a structured career path with formal training, on-the-job assignments, cross-training and rotational assignments. PaCERs begin as general schedule 7s and can advance to GS-11or GS-12 upon completion. There are multiple pathways to becoming a PaCER, including being hired internally, as a recent graduate or from military service. For more information, visit www.dla.mil/Careers/PaCE/.