At °µÍø³Ô¹Ï, we celebrate our people, our cultures, and we recognize the value of diversity and inclusion. In March, we’ll focus on Women’s History Month while shining a light on one employee at a time.Ìý Today’s Q&A is with Staci Collins, Program Security Manager, INDOPACOM.
How did your military service prepare you for a successful career at °µÍø³Ô¹Ï?Â
The military taught me to adapt and overcome, to work efficiently and build trust with my teammates, and how to provide the very best customer service through any situation imaginable.
How did you come to join °µÍø³Ô¹Ï?
An old colleague recommended me for this position when he and his partner were suddenly requested to transfer off-island. Since we had worked together before, he thought I would be a perfect fit for the task at hand and join in well with the °µÍø³Ô¹Ï team here.
What is your professional and personal background?Â
I am all things Security. I have worked over 10 years supporting secure facilities for the military, making sure that physical and personnel security are maintained at the highest level possible.
Describe the work you do and how you think it makes a positive impact.Ìý
On a daily basis, I work tediously to maintain all aspects of program security for our customer. I make sure they receive the best customer service and stay within the policy guidelines to protect not only the program but the personnel who take pride in making this the best military in the world.
What are some of your accomplishments and/or what has been your proudest career moment?Â
While working in this field, I am proud to say I have never failed a single compliance inspection. My proudest moments are found in the day-to-day tasks where I can be an asset to this community and add to the success of the bigger picture.
What do you enjoy about working for °µÍø³Ô¹Ï?
I love the team I have here with °µÍø³Ô¹Ï. It is rare and refreshing to work with members who take pride in going above and beyond in even the smallest tasks.
What are you passionate about?Â
I am passionate about helping and uplifting others through philanthropy. I love to give back to this land by volunteering in nature, planting and pulling up harmful weeds. I also volunteer a few times a week with a local elementary school. Spending time with children revives me and keeps me open to new ideas.
What’s your career advice?Â
Be the employee and teammate you would want working for your own private business. Remain flexible and put in daily effort. The work you do will not go unseen and you will leave each day fulfilled knowing you gave 100%.
What does safety mean to you or do you have a favorite safety tip?
Safety is a number one priority of mine. My favorite safety tip is to REPORT. Being able to feel safe to speak up in your working environment and to let others know when you are in need is a key to success.
What’s the best invention in the world and why?Â
The camera. Pictures allow us to create our own time machine. Capturing moments and being able to share them with others is something I never take for granted.
Anything else you would like to share from a personal or professional perspective?
Smile more and take initiative; both are free but the rewards you will receive from these small gestures is priceless.
What does Women’s History Month mean to you?
For a very long time, women have been written out of history. Women’s history means we as humans recognize the unique impact women have in this world. We are seen, we are capable, and we are creating new ways for this world. Women’s History Month gives us an opportunity to research, write about, share stories and raise awareness of the diversity of women’s lived experiences and the work that still remains to be done to bring about equality.