BATTLE CREEK, Mich. - Ashley Jordan is a current member of Pathways to Career Excellence (PACE) Group 50, which began in 2025. For her second year in the PACE Program, she will transition to Fort Hood, Texas, working as a property disposal specialist with environmental duties.
Why did you first apply to the PACE Program?
My decision to apply stems from a deep respect for DLA and a commitment that’s a personal journey for me. I have found that when you invest yourself fully in the organization, the opportunities for advancement and learning within the agency are truly endless.
What was your career path before joining the PACE Program?
My professional foundation was built more than 10 years in manufacturing coordination, but my true calling has always been government service. Balancing a full-time academic schedule, I took a leap of faith as a contractor at the Anniston Army Depot. That steppingstone solidified my commitment to the mission and motivated me to relentlessly pursue a career with the DLA.
What is your favorite part of PACE?
My favorite aspect of the PACE program has been the incredible relationships I have built across our network. Experiencing firsthand how every department unites —whether they are operating in the field or the office — to form a cohesive "Team DLA" has been deeply rewarding.
What has been your most memorable moment in the PACE Program, and why does it stand out to you?
My most memorable experience was my temporary duty assignment to Jacksonville, Florida. Having the opportunity to work directly alongside the team at the (region directorate) site allowed me to immerse myself in our core operational processes and gain a firsthand understanding of the multifaceted roles that sustain our mission.
What advice would you give to someone just starting their journey in the PACE Program?
I firmly believe there is no ceiling to what we can achieve. By staying resilient, taking proactive steps to learn the operation hands-on, and always maintaining a curious mind, the opportunities for success are limitless.
What suggestions do you have for the PACE Program itself that could enhance the experience for future participants?
Expand your operational aperture by actively engaging with units outside your gaining department, observing firsthand how diverse functions synchronize into a unified network.
What are the key qualities that help a person succeed and thrive in the PACE Program?
Uphold the highest standards of integrity and mission engagement, utilizing constructive feedback to optimize your operational effectiveness and personal growth.
How would you explain the program, and its benefit to a colleague?
This program is designed to forge future leaders. While you will encounter challenges, maintaining confidence in your capabilities is a foundational step toward your success.
Looking beyond the PACE Program, what are your long-term career goals within the agency?
Long-term, I plan to continue to further my knowledge within DLA and continue to apply myself to grow within the organization and hope my actions and dedication will inspire others to always follow their dreams and reach beyond the stars.
What’s something you’d like to share about your life outside of work?
In my personal time, I am dedicated to parenting my two children. We enjoy traveling together and discovering new locations and cultures.
Editorial Note: Pathways to Career Excellence is a two-year program that takes PACERs through all of Disposition Services and its processes to prepare for leadership. The first year takes place at organizational leadership 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 PACER’s. PACERs begin as general schedule 7s, promote 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 directly from military service.
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