Rebekah R. Brown is part of Pathways to Career Excellence Group 50 and previously worked for DLA Distribution.
Why did you want to take part in PACE?
I wanted to join PACE because of its reputation for fast-tracking professional growth. The combination of classroom education and hands-on operational training is the perfect way to build a deep, foundational understanding of DLA’s support to the warfighter. I believe in our organization and this program gave me the chance to stretch myself. It has also given me a better vision of leadership and the day-to-day obstacles leaders face and overcome.
Tell us about your career before your PACE selection. For example, any military service or previous DLA roles?
Prior to PACE, I served as an inventory lead for DLA Distribution. This role gave me firsthand experience with how critical DLA’s supply chain is to front line readiness and how our daily work directly supports warfighters and customers worldwide.
What do you appreciate about PACE so far?
I truly appreciate the collaborative culture. Both my peers and senior leadership are incredibly supportive, creating an environment where it is safe to ask questions and continuous learning is encouraged. The program teaches you to be aware of your strengths and weaknesses and emphasizes the importance of a “can-do” attitude—coming to work every day ready to tackle any challenge.
What is your most memorable moment in the program and why does it stand out for you?
My most memorable moment was playing the Easter Bunny at a Family, Morale, Welfare, and Recreation event in Battle Creek. It stands out because it was an opportunity to get involved, bring joy to others, and serve the community. I believe the best gift you can give is your time.
What advice would you give to someone just beginning their PACE journey?
I would encourage them to ask plenty of questions and be adaptable. Remember that every day is an opportunity to learn from your mistakes, so take risks and keep moving forward. Get comfortable with being uncomfortable, keep an open mind, and be respectful to everyone you meet on your journey. You never know who you will cross paths with again in your career.
Can you think of any ways PACE could be even better for future participants?
The program could be enhanced by providing more hands-on, cross-functional rotations and site visits to different DLA depots early on. This would help set the stage by giving new participants a stronger foundational understanding of the entire Defense Logistics Agency.
How can a participant succeed and thrive in PACE?
Take ownership of your learning. Build relationships outside of your direct team, seek out constructive feedback and treat every challenge as a professional development opportunity. Always ask questions to form a better understanding. Get lots of rest on off time. Be kind and humble to everyone you meet because they may be your boss one day. Be honest when asked a question, don’t be afraid if you don’t know the answer. Seek to understand how real leaders think and communicate because they may be your boss one day. Mr. Cannon said this to me when I had the opportunity to shadow him: give yourself and others grace and show mercy when needed.
In a nutshell, how would you describe the benefit of PACE to a potential applicant?
PACE bridges the gap between potential and expertise, giving you a structured, fast- tracked pathway to a meaningful and high-impact career in federal service. Your career is in your hands, so I recommend linking up with mentors who are already in the career you aspire to have.
Where will you be assigned for your second year of PACE and what are you looking forward to in that phase of the program?
I will be assigned to Fort Sill, Oklahoma. I look forward to applying my training to solve real problems and complex supply chain issues. With a strong background in customer service and inventory management, I am eager to learn from my new team, contribute, and be a supportive teammate. No one gets through this life without the help and support of others.
Looking beyond PACE, what are your future DLA and lifetime career goals?
My goal is to obtain my professional certifications, advance to a GS-12 lead role, and eventually step into a supervisory position where I can mentor others and continue to give back to the workforce and the agency.
Anything you’d like to share about your life outside of work? (Hobbies, interests, family, etc.)
Outside of work, I enjoy walking, especially long walks on the beach, reading a good book, and listening to music. When time permits, I love spending quality time with my family, which includes my son, two daughters, and four granddaughters.
The Pathways to Career Excellence Program for DLA Disposition Services is a two-year program educating PACERS on the full scope of organizational business processes and the various directorates. The first year takes place at major subordinate command headquarters in Michigan, with a second year either in Battle Creek for Contracting trainees or at field sites for property disposal personnel. PACERS begin training as General Schedule 7 employees, promote to GS-9 at the end of their first year, and graduate the program as GS-11s. There are multiple pathways to becoming a PACER, including through DLA internal selection, recent graduates, or candidates coming directly from active military service.