COLUMBUS, Ohio –
Mika Adams is a recent graduate of the Defense Logistics Agency Weapons Support (Columbus) Pathways to Career Excellence program. She began her PaCE journey in July 2023 and graduated July 2025 as a post-award contract specialist.
Why did you first apply to the PaCE program?
I have several family members and close friends who have served or are currently serving in the military. Their dedication and sacrifices inspired me to seek opportunities where I could not only support them but also contribute to the mission readiness of our warfighters. The PaCE program seemed like the perfect opportunity to channel my respect for the military into meaningful action as well as personal and professional growth.
What was your favorite part(s) of the PaCE program?
Participating in the PaCE program was an incredibly rewarding experience, especially for those who have little to no experience with federal service. The trainers and leaders offered valuable guidance and consistently challenged me to expand my skills, think creatively and step outside of my comfort zone.
The ultimate highlight was the remarkable group of people I met along the way. Being surrounded by ambitious and passionate peers created an environment where it was easy to thrive. The sense of community within my team was created by learning from each other, leaning on each other and celebrating each other’s wins. Collaboration with my team and throughout the agency was by far the most rewarding aspects of the entire experience.
Can you share an example of how you’re helping the warfighter?
As an “1102” contract specialist in post award, my role directly supports the warfighters by ensuring the contracts that we award are delivered according to the agreed contract terms, regarding timeliness and quality. For example, I was working on a contract for which a vendor reported a production delay on a critical part. I worked closely with them to identify a solution and to adjust the delivery schedule rather than finding an alternate source, which could have resulted in massive delays to the warfighters. By staying engaged after this award was issued, I ensured that potential concerns did not turn into mission impacts.
What would you say is the most important quality to succeed in the PaCE program?
I believe adaptability is the most important quality to succeed in the PaCE program. The program exposes us to a wide range of developmental skills that train us on commodities, quality assurance, customer needs and acquisition methods. Being adaptable allows one to adjust to new situations, learn from each division and apply those lessons to better support the warfighter. Adaptability also ties into being a quick learner and staying open to feedback, which are critical for career growth.
In your own words, how would you describe the PaCE program, and what can you gain from it to someone interested in applying?
The PaCE program is a structured training and development career pathway designed to take someone from brand new to federal service to becoming a fully capable professional by completing extensive coursework, learning from trainers and mentors, and receiving hands-on experience with real assignments that directly support the warfighter. By the time you finish the program, you not only have the technical skills to be successful, but also the confidence and perspective to understand how your work contributes to the bigger mission.
What advice do you have for current PaCER?
My advice would be to really embrace changes and challenges throughout the program. Each unfamiliar situation or assignment might feel uncomfortable at first, but that’s where the real growth happens. Instead of shying away from those moments, lean into them and see them as opportunities to build resilience and expand your skill set. By approaching challenges with an open mindset and a willingness to learn, you’ll come out of the program not only technically stronger, but also more confident and adaptable as a professional.
Editorial Note: The DLA Weapons Support (Columbus) 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/.