Explain your job in three sentences.
I was appointed to this position January 1, 2019. It was a great way to start the new year! I lead and manage the small business programs for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Charleston District as chief of the small business office. I’m responsible for developing small businesses and maximizing their opportunities to participate in our procurements, ensuring a broad base of capable suppliers to support the Corps’ missions and strengthening our nation’s economic development. Small Business is the heart of the U.S. economy and a vital part of the Corps’ acquisition process so I have a patriotic passion to serve small businesses in South Carolina as the point of contact for the District.
What is the most unique thing you bring to the District?
I have 30 years of the U.S. Army military experience and training serving from 1987-2017. I retired as a lieutenant colonel in the Army with 10 years of enlisted service and 20 years as an officer. I served in numerous contract acquisition positions during my last 12 years in the military, including contracting support brigade executive officer, contracts manager with Microsoft as part of the Army’s Training with Industry Program, contracting team leader, contracting officer, contingency contracting officer, and TRADOC capability manager and assistant product manager. I’m also a veteran of Operations Desert Shield/Storm, Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom in Pakistan and Operation Freedom’s Sentinel in Afghanistan. I think my unique history with the Army allows me to see both sides of the contracting process so I can best help small and disadvantaged businesses.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
Contributing to the success of the District is what I strive for every day. It is very rewarding to help small businesses be able to compete for prime contracts and sub-contractor opportunities with large businesses.
Highlight a notable milestone or memory in your career.
Getting hired as the chief of the small business office with the District has been my most notable milestone. After a lot of reflection on what to do and where to live after a 30 year military career, I found my home.
What goals do you have for your career at the Charleston District?
My career goal is to remain in the District and continue to improve personally and professionally as a value-added member of the District. Continuing the success of the Charleston mission and exceeding the District’s small business goals is also a priority. I look forward to getting more small businesses registered in our System for Award Management, which all contractors wishing to do business with the District must be registered in.
What is something that most people don’t know about you?
I was born and raised in Ohio (like a lot of people who have moved to Charleston!).