PHILADELPHIA –
Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support celebrated the Pathways to Career Excellence program’s newest graduating class with a ceremony July 24.
A total of 79 employees graduated from the two-year training program designed for entry-level personnel to gain advancement in professional, administrative and technological careers within Troop Support.
In his opening remarks, Dave Nickels, DLA Troop Support career program administrator, explained how much the graduates have accomplished.
“Over the past two years, these individuals have expanded their knowledge in their fields and have shown resilience throughout the completion of extensive training,” Nickels said. “We’re so proud of you, how far you’ve come, and we can’t wait to see the incredible things you accomplish.”
Serving as the keynote speaker, DLA Troop Support Commander Army Brig. Gen. Sean P. Kelly expressed his appreciation for the effort and contribution graduates made throughout the program.
“Our graduates embarked on a journey with DLA, and today we celebrate the culmination of their hard work,” Kelly said. “In the military, we don’t title this ceremony as a graduation, but a commissioning—a welcoming into the ranks of our essential team.”
Kelly also commended the graduates on overcoming the challenges associated with completion of the program and their continued dedication to the DLA mission.
“This program is not easy,” Kelly said. “It’s not designed to be passively observed. The goal is that you [met challenges and became] inducted into the mission of DLA. Throughout the past two years, I know that you were actively contributing and bringing fresh perspectives. This program has equipped you to be successful [in] supporting the mission.”
Throughout the PaCE program, individuals work full-time at Troop Support while receiving a salary and health benefits. This gives them formal professional experience through on-the-job assignments, working across teams through rotational placements.
Kelly left the graduates with advice on their future careers and highlighted the essential support they provide to the warfighter.
“When you come to work every day, make it a point for yourself to do what matters,” Kelly said. “Incorporate your personal qualities into everything you do. The authenticity you bring, giving it your all, because the men and women in uniform, and more broadly, the nation count on you.”
To learn more about the PaCE program and working at DLA, click here.