Fort Belvoir, Virginia –
Editor’s note: The Defense Logistics Agency recognizes March as Women’s History Month. In honor of women’s contributions to the agency’s global mission, DLA is highlighting female employees who work day in and day out to provide logistics support to America’s warfighters.
My name is: Deborah Youngblood
I am: A traffic management specialist for DLA Headquarters
Describe your job in a sentence: I serve as a DLA Distribution customer liaison for transportation operations, solutions and opportunities, providing transportation planning, guidance, and advice to internal counterparts and external customers including distribution depots, supply centers, vendors, and military and Foreign Military Sales customers.
How long have you worked at DLA? I’ve been with the transportation team at DLA Headquarters for over five years, but I started my career in 2008 as a distribution process worker at DLA Distribution Susquehanna, Pennsylvania. I’ve held various positions throughout my career, all of which enabled me to build a network and strengthen my skills and knowledge relating to all aspects of distribution.
What is your favorite thing about working for DLA? I enjoy the daily satisfaction of knowing I come to work to supply our customers and service members with what they need to complete their own missions and assignments. I also value the relationships I’ve built and continue to build throughout my career. I’ve been fortunate to work with strong leaders and dynamic teams, all of whom remain focused on doing what’s best for the agency and those we support.
What are your best memories of working here? The camaraderie among the teams I’ve been part of and the outcomes of the work performed. I have worked several projects, including supporting the Federal Emergency Management Agency in areas that were affected by natural disasters, where we’ve had to maintain focus and work under highly stressful circumstances. It’s those times that I find most memorable as I reflect on the bonds, strength and coordination among those teams and how it all aided in successful projects.
How do you make a difference? Customer service is my No. 1 priority. I take pride in the fact that I work hard, remain calm and use my expertise during intense situations while assisting customers who are often up against tight timelines. I believe in going the extra mile and I often take on extra assignments. I help ensure my colleagues are trained and have the tools they need to fulfill their roles.
What does Women’s History Month mean to you? I view Women’s History Month as an opportunity to reflect on women who have been leaders, who had a drive to effect change in society and have achieved success for the greater good.