COLUMBUS, Ohio –
Walter Morales is a current member of the Defense Logistics Agency Weapons Support (Columbus) Pathways to Career Excellence program. He began his PaCE journey in February 2024 and will graduate February 2026 as a post-award contract specialist.
Why did you first apply to the PaCE program?
I applied to the PaCE program because I recognized it as a unique opportunity to grow both personally and professionally. The program offered a strong platform for networking, allowing me to connect with peers, mentors and leaders who could challenge my thinking and broaden my perspective. Beyond networking, I was drawn to the program’s emphasis on continuous learning and skill development. As someone who thrives on seeking knowledge and exploring new ideas, I saw PaCE as the ideal environment to expand my understanding in contracting. In short, I applied because PaCE aligned perfectly with my curiosity, my drive to learn and my desire to build lasting connections that would support my long-term goals.
What is your professional background?
I have a Bachelor of Science in industrial engineering. My career experience includes IT consulting, supply chain and logistics, where I’ve focused on improving processes and managing projects effectively.
What have been your favorite parts of the PaCE program?
My favorite parts of the PaCE program have been the strong sense of camaraderie and teamwork it fosters. I’ve really valued the emphasis on training, which provides both practical skills and deeper insights into contracting. The support from trainers, supervisors and leadership has been exceptional – every question is addressed, and no challenge feels too big to overcome. Overall, the program stands out because it’s not just about learning; the PaCE program is training leaders and decision makers.
Can you share an example of how you’re helping (or learning to help) the warfighter?
As a post-award contracting officer, my focus is ensuring contracts are executed to completion, so the warfighter receives requested products on time and within specifications. I also contributed by creating reference sheets and leading training on topics like duty-free entry and hazmat at the branch level. These tools have helped fellow PaCERs and contract administrators work more efficiently, reducing errors and speeding delivery. By streamlining processes and sharing knowledge, I strengthen our team’s ability to support the mission and ensure the warfighter gets what they need without delay.
If you could change one aspect of your experience in the PaCE program, what would it be?
I wouldn’t change the PaCE program itself – I see it as an excellent first step in building a career in government. If anything, I’d recommend adding a shadowing and rotation period with different warranted PaCE graduates before new PaCERs are assigned to specialized teams. This would give them a more balanced view of both pre-award and post-award processes, rather than having one area become an afterthought.
What would you say is the most important quality to succeed in the PaCE program?
To excel in the PaCE program, I believe two skills are essential.
- Attention to detail – Contracting requires precision, whether reviewing clauses, monitoring compliance or ensuring deliverables meet specifications. Small errors can have big consequences, so developing a sharp eye for detail is critical.
- Intellectual curiosity – The program exposes PaCERs to complex regulations and diverse contracting scenarios. A curious mindset helps you ask the right questions, seek out resources and continuously learn, which ultimately strengthens your ability to support the mission.
Together, these skills not only help you succeed in PaCE, but they also lay the foundation for a strong career in government contracting.
In your own words, how would you describe the PaCE program, and what can you gain from it?
Let’s put it this way – if my career in government is a bicycle, then the PaCE program, along with its trainers and supervisors, are the training wheels and the people giving me that first push. Once I graduate, the training wheels will come off, and it’ll be up to me to keep pedaling – learning, teaching, sharing and excelling. The program is giving me the know‑how; then it’ll be on me to apply it and see how far I can go.
What are your plans for your future in the agency?
In the near future, I plan to expand my skills with additional training in data analytics. I’ve been looking at certifications from Google, Microsoft and IBM, and I think they’ll complement my current path in contracting really well. Building that expertise will help me bring more insight into the acquisition process and strengthen the way I support the mission.
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/.