plans, manages team personnel, and meets with RC and team personnel about the latest theater operational changes, along with any associated training and local support issues.
One of the biggest challenges that Zabr- dac currently faces is
logistics. “Te
movement control teams, personnel security detachments, and rotary- and fixed-wing support are fantastic; however, because of the huge volume of person- nel and equipment movements, travel can take longer than anticipated. Also, the inclement weather further compli- cates the travel process. Nonetheless, the teams do an outstanding job working within their operational parameters and asset availabilities.”
Tere’s still some time to socialize, but that tends to become part of the mission as well. “About once a month when in their AO [area of operations], I have din- ner with the PGSS [Persistent Ground Surveillance System, managed by the U.S. Navy] program leads to discuss common aerostat issues, and afterward I enjoy a cigar.” Overall, Zabrdac’s routine as a SETA contractor closely resembles his earlier way of life as a Soldier, including regular physical fitness, in this case three, hourlong workouts at the gym a week, including a quick run.
Based on his perspective as both a retired Soldier and a deployed contrac- tor, Zabrdac has some advice for anyone in the Army materiel enterprise who plans to deploy to theater: Be flexible, be a team player and have a good training plan to support sustainment efforts.
“You may have great skill sets, but if you’re not a team player, it’s going to be hard to work in this environment.” In addition, “For your
equipment fieldings, team needs a solid training and
BRIEFING THE BRASS Sam Zabrdac, center right, supports the PTDS aerostat program in operations, fielding, sustainment and training. Here, Zabrdac describes the capabilities of the PTDS for the Hon. Frank Kendall, center left, undersecretary of defense for acquisition, technology and logistics, Feb. 4 at Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan. (U.S. Army photo by Summer Barkley)
sustainment implementation and sup- port plan; and then be ready to adjust and reorganize in an ever-changing, fluid combat environment.”
Zabrdac said his team’s biggest impact was to standardize and formalize the PM’s
program processes in
he said. His motivation to excel comes from this strong belief that he and his team are serving a “greater cause” while deployed to theater.
theater.
“Implementing new operational and train- ing support procedures to educate crews and staffs on aerostat operations has con- tributed to saving Soldiers’ lives ... our systems and crews help find the threats. Tat’s what motivates our entire team.”
In the end, it’s all about keeping Soldiers safe, in which Zabrdac takes great pride,
“Our team is serving the greater cause for development of U.S. democratic ideals
in
a country ravished by war
and suffering. I believe our team has a sense of purpose with the right skill sets, experience and knowledge to make a difference … we just need to keep work- ing hard, every day.”
—MR. ROBERT E. COULTAS
ASC.ARMY.MIL
123
WORKFORCE
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