ARMY AL&T
ensuring I can meet and often exceed the expectations set for my role.” She applies this lesson by staying open to new ideas and approaches, actively seeking continuous learning opportunities and being prepared to shift strategies as needed.
Benson noted that early in her career, her division chief encour- aged her to explore the acquisition path, which she pursued and secured a position as a management and program assistant in the Program Executive Office for Command, Control and Communications – Tactical (PEO C3T) Readiness Management Division. Te role presented an opportunity to build founda- tional knowledge and experience vital for advancing within the contracting sphere.
“My initial foray into the acquisition field was as a volunteer contracting officer representative within the same division. Tis role afforded me the chance to work closely with the ACC- APG contracting officer and specialist on a variety of PEO C3T contracts. It provided me with a profound understand- ing of contract administration and confirmed my interest in furthering a career in contracting. Te dynamic nature of the work, coupled with the direct impact on supporting Soldiers by ensuring they received essential equipment and services, was particularly compelling,” she said. “Tis experience catalyzed my transition to a contract specialist, a role that fully embraced my skills in problem-solving and desire for a challenging, impactful career within the federal government.”
In 2022, Benson completed the Emerging Leader Courses, which was a significant milestone in her professional develop- ment within the Army Acquisition Workforce. Troughout the year, these courses provided her with a series of invaluable lessons and experiences that have profoundly impacted her professional growth, she said.
“Te personalized one-on-one coaching sessions were particu- larly transformative and deepened my understanding of my own capabilities and contributions to the organization. Tis enhanced self-awareness instilled a robust confidence, encouraging me to pursue higher-level opportunities and embrace the role of mentor for my colleagues and junior specialists,” Benson said. “Tese courses not only sharpened my leadership skills but also prepared me for my next career goal—becoming a contracting officer.”
With newfound confidence, Benson took on a high-dollar value contract in 2023. Te role involved the navigation of complex contracting activities and challenges, significantly preparing her for future responsibilities as a contracting officer.
“Te skills, confidence and insights I gained have made me a more effective leader and a proactive member of the Army Acqui- sition Workforce,” she said. “Te courses not only offer practical skills but also provide strategic career insights that are crucial for long-term success.”
Benson said that after her division was disbanded and team members were reallocated across various divisions, she empha- sized to junior colleagues the importance of resilience and adaptability. “Tis significant organizational change presented challenges in maintaining morale and productivity. I encouraged them to remain focused and steadfast in pursuing their career objectives, despite the uncertainties and disruptions they faced.”
“My advice to junior acquisition personnel has consistently centered on the necessity of perseverance through changes and challenges. I have aimed to provide them with the tools and strategies necessary to overcome obstacles, fostering an environ- ment where they can grow and succeed in their roles within the acquisition field.”
Outside of work, Benson is an avid event planner and a dedicated mother of three. “Both roles enhance and reflect my capabil- ities as a contract specialist in various ways,” she said. “As an event planner, meticulous attention to detail, robust commu- nication skills and adeptness at handling complex logistics are crucial. Tese skills are directly transferable to my professional role, where detailed attention and clear communication are essen- tial for negotiating contract terms and ensuring compliance with regulatory frameworks.”
“Being a mother has taught me the art of multitasking and nurtured my ability to empathize and understand diverse perspectives, which are critical in building and maintaining strong relationships with stakeholders,” she said. “Tese quali- ties are vital in my work environment, particularly when resolving disputes and negotiating contracts. In both parenting and my professional role, I strive to create supportive, productive envi- ronments that facilitate growth and success.”
By fostering adaptability, she said, she not only enhances her professional performance but also cultivates a resilient approach to both her personal and professional life challenges. “Tis has been key to navigating complexities with confidence and secur- ing successful outcomes across all facets of my life.”
—CHERYL MARINO
https://asc.ar my.mil
53
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45 |
Page 46 |
Page 47 |
Page 48 |
Page 49 |
Page 50 |
Page 51 |
Page 52 |
Page 53 |
Page 54 |
Page 55 |
Page 56 |
Page 57 |
Page 58 |
Page 59 |
Page 60 |
Page 61 |
Page 62 |
Page 63 |
Page 64 |
Page 65 |
Page 66 |
Page 67 |
Page 68 |
Page 69 |
Page 70 |
Page 71 |
Page 72 |
Page 73 |
Page 74 |
Page 75 |
Page 76 |
Page 77 |
Page 78 |
Page 79 |
Page 80 |
Page 81 |
Page 82 |
Page 83 |
Page 84 |
Page 85 |
Page 86 |
Page 87 |
Page 88 |
Page 89 |
Page 90 |
Page 91 |
Page 92 |
Page 93 |
Page 94 |
Page 95 |
Page 96 |
Page 97 |
Page 98 |
Page 99 |
Page 100 |
Page 101 |
Page 102 |
Page 103 |
Page 104 |
Page 105 |
Page 106 |
Page 107 |
Page 108 |
Page 109 |
Page 110 |
Page 111 |
Page 112
