The following blog post was written by MSC’s dedicated human resources staff, and is part of a series focused on jobs at MSC – recruiting and retaining our talented workforce. This post celebrates the vibrant history and culture of talented civil servants who work for MSC during African American History Month. Stay tuned for more and be sure to share your feedback and ideas in the comments section.
Sandra Tyree is the deputy director for small business programs and an MSC employee of over six years. Her contributions to MSC include attending small business conferences and events that provide opportunities for meeting small and small disadvantaged businesses. She screens MSC procurements to determine if they can possibly be set aside for small business participation and schedules meetings for small businesses to present their capabilities to MSC subject matter experts. Additionally, she provides small business training to potential contractors and to contracting personnel.
Meeting people and speaking at seminars is the most rewarding aspect of her job. She says it is very rewarding when she is able to help small and small disadvantaged businesses by providing guidance to secure federal contracts.
One of her biggest challenges is overcoming the requirements for parts and services because many times these companies are large businesses.
Sandra’s favorite aspect of MSC is the people; she ‘s forged some lasting relationships since she began working here.
Her advice to incoming MSC employees stresses the importance of team work and learning as much as possible in the small business field. “Learn what is required to be successful in your position. Forge friendships with people in your field who work at other local commands…sharing information is invaluable.”
Lester Hood is a two-year employee of MSC in the ordinance civision of our logistics office. In his role, Lester conducts explosives safety technical assistance to MSC ships world-wide. He also provides other technical assistance throughout MSC.
Lester takes pride in solving special and unique problems that make the jobs of our CIVMARs safer and more efficient. He mentions that seeing his hard work come to life in a way that affects the people who operate the ships – that supply the armed forces and the forces that put bombs on target are the most rewarding aspects of his job. A key motivator is the self-satisfaction of providing support for the fleet.
As a retired Navy Sailor of thirty years, Lester’s favorite aspect of MSC is “the great satisfaction in providing quality ordnance and safety programs to the fleet which consist of the men and women that I help trained.“
Lester’s advice is to be prepared to bring your “A” game because MSC is the “A” Team. The country and fleet calls [MSC] when they need something done and done right.
