Employee Spotlight: Jamel A.
 
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DIA Officer JAMEL A.

With four college degrees, including a doctorate in mechanical engineering, Jamel A. applies his passion for learning for the good of the nation – and DIA's critical mission. He's also been recognized for his work mentoring students, helping youth to better understand the power of science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Below, he discusses what sparks his creative energy.

Q&A WITH JAMEL

Q1: How long have you worked for DIA and what do you do in your current role?

I have accumulated over six years of experience at DIA as a technical analyst, specializing in missiles. I also lead a working group of experts from various agencies and organizations across the intelligence community that’s focused on certain kinds of analysis. Furthermore, I serve as president for one of DIA’s Toastmasters Clubs, helping new and experienced analysts improve their presentation and communication skills.

Q2: What keeps you at DIA?

The combination of committed individuals, a focused mission and boundless opportunities for growth. I feel empowered to contribute to a shared vision – to transform challenges into achievements and aspirations into realities.

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

The chance to make a difference in national security and global stability. Daily, I immerse myself in advanced research and problem-solving that has a direct effect on our nation’s readiness to identify and mitigate potential threats. Collaborating with a group of exceptional professionals, I derive great joy from transforming complex data into actionable strategies that defend our nation and its allies. It’s a challenging yet fulfilling experience to know that the work I do on a daily basis equates to saving lives and fostering peace worldwide.

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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?

Many people are often amazed by how much I have already accomplished. I hold four college degrees: a bachelor’s and a master’s in applied physics, along with a master’s and a doctorate in mechanical engineering. I studied at three fantastic universities, including a historically Black college, an urban university and a large research university, which gave me a variety of experiences and skills. In 2016, I was honored as Engineer of the Year by a major, U.S. engineering-student organization for my work in K-12 engineering competitions and mentoring efforts with students across different states. I also participated in exciting research at several national labs and elsewhere. Additionally, I spent a year teaching high school math and science, when I started a rocket team for talented but underserved students. After that, I became a certified nuclear engineer before joining DIA. My time at DIA has been outstanding. I approach my work with an ‘analytically driven, warfighter-focused’ mindset, striving to use my skills effectively. The work is challenging, but the rewards are great when you know your contribution is vital to national defense.

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

I have to say, it can be quite tough to fully appreciate the impact you’re making in your early years as a DIA employee. With so many elements in play and the time it takes to refine your analytical skills, it’s easy to lose sight of the ‘why.’ However, when you invest the time to truly grasp and value the ‘why’ behind your work, everything clicks into place, allowing you to see how your unique contributions align with the broader mission of the DIA. I know I play a crucial role in enhancing the agency’s understanding of threats and our responses to them. I influence decisions and I contribute to shaping the nation’s defense strategies. Collaborating with others, I help to ensure our country remains safe and prepared for any challenges. Additionally, I take pride in having meaningful conversations with some of the agency’s most senior leaders, which have led to significant actions like expanding DIA’s recruitment efforts to previously overlooked schools and organizations. This level of impact has truly affirmed that DIA is the right fit for me.

“Military and civilian engineers share a unique mission within the Defense Department – to advance cutting-edge engineering technology, systems and practices in specializations that range from cyber and space to hypersonics and quantum science and more, all in support of the warfighter.”
-Engineering in DOD,
U.S. Department of Defense