COLUMBUS, Ohio –
Brandon Anderson is a recent graduate of the Defense Logistics Agency Weapons Support (Columbus) Pathways to Career Excellence program. He started his PaCE journey in February 2024 and graduated February 2026 as a pre-award contract specialist.
Why did you first apply to the PaCE program?
To be honest, I started applying because my mom gave me some really solid advice to just get my foot in the door at [Defense Supply Center Columbus] and apply for everything I qualified for. At the time, I wasn't 100% sure what my exact path looked like, and honestly, the job search was pretty discouraging. I had a lot of interviews where I felt like I did great, but the offers just weren't coming through. I decided to stay true to myself and keep pushing every single day because I knew I wanted more than just a paycheck. I wanted a career with actual upward mobility and a deep sense of purpose where I could make a difference. I applied to the PaCE program because it felt like the first real opportunity that matched that ambition and gave me a chance to do work that actually matters.
What was your favorite part(s) of the PaCE program?
The highlight of the PaCE program for me was the opportunity to master the technical skills required to serve as a contracting officer. Finding my professional calling through this process made the hard work of learning a new field very rewarding. Earning my certification and becoming a contracting officer was a pivotal achievement that allows me to apply my expertise to DLA’s mission every day.
Can you share an example of how you’re helping the warfighter?
I help the warfighter by being the one to tackle the 'problem purchase requests.’ I’ll jump in to help multiple teams at once, especially when a project is really challenging. I’m willing to put in the extra time and legwork to figure out the roadblocks and get the award across the finish line. At the end of the day, it's about making sure the equipment gets to the warfighters, even if the paperwork to get it there is difficult.
What would you say is the most important quality to succeed in the PaCE program? Persistence – everyone will learn at different speeds and some parts of our job are harder than others. Consistent effort to learn and grow will lead you to become efficient and productive in your role. Those who remain persistent will inevitably overcome challenges and succeed within the program.
In your own words, how would you describe the PaCE program, and what can you gain from it to someone interested in applying?
Rewarding and life changing. Many start with no experience in acquisition but become highly capable contracting officers in two years’ time. There is a lot of valuable knowledge to learn and certifications to achieve; the program is designed to help an individual succeed in the acquisition field.
What advice do you have for current PaCER?
Ask a lot of questions and each time you receive feedback add it to your notes. Create templates that are well rounded and easy to adjust. Stay balanced with your workload tasks.
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/.