An official website of the United States government
Here's how you know
A .mil website belongs to an official U.S. Department of Defense organization in the United States.
A lock (lock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .mil website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

News | Feb. 5, 2019

NIB recognizes DLA Aviation employee at Training Conference and Expo

By Cathy Hopkins DLA Aviation Public Affairs

The National Industries for the Blind held their 2018 Training Conference and Exposition in Arlington, Virginia, Nov. 13 - 16 and recognized Defense Logistics Agency Aviation’s Michelle Turner-Walden, deputy chief of the Cables and Electrical Components Division, Supplier Operations Commodities Directorate.

The conference focused on training attendees on the AbilityOne Program and topics relevant to growing sales and employment for people who are blind.

Turner-Walden was given a Department of Defense Customer Appreciation Award for her support of the program.  Last year, she supported the program by approving the addition of a spotlight, used on an ambulance variant of the Humvee (High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle), to the AbilityOne procurement list. According to the award citation, by doing this she helped improve the communication between NIB and DLA Aviation on additional requirements to support.

Her efforts included close communication with NIB from their initial interest in the national stock numbered item, providing background information for NIB’s go/no go decision, negotiating a fair market price and assisting in source determination.

The chosen source was the Cincinnati Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired. They employ approximately 60 blind and visually-impaired individuals.

“Michele’s efforts will help maintain the viability of Cincinnati’s industries program and give those visually impaired employees a sustainable career,” said Crystal Ober, deputy director, Office of Small Business Program, DLA Aviation.

“It was truly an honor to receive this award and see how we contribute to the workforce of people who have physical challenges,” said Turner-Walden. “It really gives you an appreciation of those employees and their work ethics as they don’t take anything for granted and are so appreciative to be able to continue to be among the work force.”