Ashley Jordan in the Pacer spotlight

BATTLE CREEK, Mich. — Ashley Jordan, a member of the Defense Logistics Agency Disposition Services’ Pathways to Career Excellence (PACE) Group 50 that began in 2025, will spend her second year of the program at Fort Hood, Texas, working as a property disposal specialist with environmental duties.

“My decision to apply stems from a deep respect for DLA and a commitment that’s a personal journey for me. I have found that when you invest yourself fully in the organization, the opportunities for advancement and learning within the agency are truly endless,” Jordan said.

Jordan said more than a decade in manufacturing coordination laid the groundwork for her career, but a leap into federal service crystallized her path. “My professional foundation was built more than 10 years in manufacturing coordination, but my true calling has always been government service. Balancing a full-time academic schedule, I took a leap of faith as a contractor at the Anniston Army Depot. That steppingstone solidified my commitment to the mission and motivated me to relentlessly pursue a career with the DLA.”

She highlighted collaboration across the enterprise as a defining feature of her experience. “My favorite aspect of the PACE program has been the incredible relationships I have built across our network. Experiencing firsthand how every department unites —whether they are operating in the field or the office — to form a cohesive “Team DLA” has been deeply rewarding.”

A temporary duty assignment stood out as a formative moment. “My most memorable experience was my temporary duty assignment to Jacksonville, Florida. Having the opportunity to work directly alongside the team at the (region directorate) site allowed me to immerse myself in our core operational processes and gain a firsthand understanding of the multifaceted roles that sustain our mission.”

Jordan encouraged incoming participants to lean into hands-on learning and persistence. “I firmly believe there is no ceiling to what we can achieve. By staying resilient, taking proactive steps to learn the operation hands-on, and always maintaining a curious mind, the opportunities for success are limitless.” She also urged participants to broaden their exposure: “Expand your operational aperture by actively engaging with units outside your gaining department, observing firsthand how diverse functions synchronize into a unified network.”

As for what it takes to thrive, she emphasized character and growth. “Uphold the highest standards of integrity and mission engagement, utilizing constructive feedback to optimize your operational effectiveness and personal growth.” And she framed the program’s purpose succinctly: “This program is designed to forge future leaders. While you will encounter challenges, maintaining confidence in your capabilities is a foundational step toward your success.”

Looking ahead, Jordan said, “Long-term, I plan to continue to further my knowledge within DLA and continue to apply myself to grow within the organization and hope my actions and dedication will inspire others to always follow their dreams and reach beyond the stars.” Outside of work, she added, “In my personal time, I am dedicated to parenting my two children. We enjoy traveling together and discovering new locations and cultures.”

PACE is a two-year development program that moves participants through DLA Disposition Services operations to prepare them for leadership roles, according to the agency. Year one is based in Battle Creek, Michigan; year two takes place either in Battle Creek for contracting participants or at an assigned field site for those in property disposal. Participants start as GS-7 employees, advance to GS-9 after their first year, and graduate at the GS-11 level. The agency says candidates can enter the program as internal hires, recent graduates, or from military service.