Q2: What keeps you at DIA?

I moved from the ‘cheesehead state’ of Wisconsin. I worked in human resources in the private sector, and my first position away from home was with DIA. The agency offers a myriad of opportunities to its workforce, such as networking with other agencies, DIA partners and stakeholders. DIA urges employees to take initiative and to think innovatively to address emerging and enduring priorities. To that end, I have led and volunteered for special projects I may not have challenged myself with in the past.

I always want to be part of solutions, including those that take advantage of DIA’s diversity and inclusion to enhance all aspects of mission execution. At DIA, I know I am part of a positive mission, helping more people than I imagined. The work inspires me.

Q3: What do you find most fulfilling about your job?

Diversity and inclusion are the most fulfilling aspects of my job. There are countless ways to bring the workforce together – from supporting the DIA Director’s priorities and initiatives to sharing your own ideas, forming working groups and bringing your ideas to fruition. The opportunities to get involved and make a difference are endless.

Q4: What would people be surprised to know about your career path, or what it’s like to work for a combat support agency/the U.S. intelligence community?

On my own initiative, I completed the required curriculum and became a certified contracting officer during the COVID-19 pandemic. Later, I led the creation of a rotation program in CIO. In 2021, I was promoted to my first position as a program analyst/contracting officer representative. And in 2023, I joined U.S. Africa Command in a supporting role that’s still tethered to the intelligence community. Through it all, I have remained motivated to grow, learn and excel. Now at the command, I like everything about my team, the work, diversity, culture and much more. I would not trade this opportunity for anything.

Q5: How do you really know you’re making a difference?

I can see across the agency the work I’ve done or contributed to, including operational challenges in mission, and various networks I’ve built through efforts related to talent management, leadership, accountability, diversity and inclusion, courageous conversations and more. When ‘we’ make a positive difference, then ‘I’ make a difference.