A+ FOR ADAPTABILITY


Troughout her career as a contract specialist, Chere Benson has encountered numer- ous challenges, navigating significant organizational changes and complex negotiations. Similarly, in her personal life, she’s faced unexpected obstacles and transitions that demanded flexibility and resilience. But she’s rolled with each challenge and learned some pretty amazing lessons along the way.


“Te most important lesson I’ve learned throughout my career, both on and off the job, is the paramount importance of adaptability,” she said. “Whether navigating signifi- cant organizational changes as a contract specialist or handling unexpected personal life transitions, adaptability has been indispensable.”


CHERE BENSON


COMMAND/ORGANIZATION: U.S. Army Contracting Command – Aberdeen Proving Ground, Division B, Branch D


TITLE: Contract specialist YEARS OF SERVICE IN WORKFORCE: 14


DAWIA CERTIFICATIONS: Contracting professional


EDUCATION: M.S. in management science and B.S. in business administration and man- agement, University of Maryland University College


AWARDS: Special Act of Service Award (2023); Recognition from the Integrated Logis- tics Support Center, Director of the U.S. Army Communications-Electronics Command (2022, 2020); Civilian Service Commendation Medal (2021); Recognition from the Deputy Executive Director of the Software Engineering Center (2020)


In her role as a contract specialist at the U.S. Army Contracting Command – Aberdeen Proving Ground (ACC-APG), Benson manages the entire life cycle of various contracts for the Army—drafting, negotiating and administering contracts to ensure they meet the Army's stringent requirements with efficiency and effectiveness.


“My work requires a keen attention to detail, a strong adherence to regulatory stan- dards and the ability to manage contract modifications and amendments as needed,” Benson said. “Te essence of my role supports our Soldiers directly by ensuring they have the necessary equipment, supplies and services to perform their duties safely and successfully.”


In addition to supporting Soldiers, Benson said the greatest satisfaction in her role within the Army Acquisition Workforce is the sense of purpose it provides.


“Knowing that my work contributes significantly to the broader mission of the Army and supports the men and women who protect our nation is both an honor and a power- ful motivator,” she said. “Tis connection not only enhances my professional endeavors but also deepens my commitment to excellence and service in every contract I oversee.”


Benson said she frequently faces scenarios that require swift adaptation, such as new regu- latory landscapes, evolving project requirements or unexpected negotiation outcomes. “Embracing adaptability allows me to remain effective and efficient in these situations,


“The essence of my role supports our Soldiers directly by ensuring they have the necessary equipment, supplies and services to perform their duties safely and successfully.”


52 Army AL&T Magazine Spring 2025


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