PACER DLA Today spotlights Ashley Jordan

Ashley Jordan, a member of the Defense Logistics Agency’s Pathways to Career Excellence Group 50, will relocate to Texas for the program’s second year, taking on a property disposal specialist role with environmental responsibilities at Fort Hood (now Fort Cavazos).

Jordan said her application to the program was rooted in a sense of mission and a belief in the agency’s potential to cultivate talent. “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.”

She described an early career grounded in industrial operations and a transition that confirmed her path into federal service. “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.”

Building cross-functional relationships has been a highlight, Jordan said. “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.”

She pointed to a temporary duty assignment in Florida as a standout experience. “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 urged incoming participants to take a hands-on approach. “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 encouraged broadening exposure across the enterprise. “Expand your operational aperture by actively engaging with units outside your gaining department, observing firsthand how diverse functions synchronize into a unified network.” Success in the program, she added, is built on values and feedback. “Uphold the highest standards of integrity and mission engagement, utilizing constructive feedback to optimize your operational effectiveness and personal growth.”

Jordan described PACE as a leadership pipeline that challenges and develops its participants. “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, she said she intends to keep growing within the agency. “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 work, she added, family time is her focus: “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 DLA Disposition Services program designed to expose participants to the organization’s operations and prepare them for leadership roles. The first year takes place at organizational headquarters in Battle Creek, Mich.; the second year is spent either in Battle Creek for contracting tracks or at a field site for property disposal roles. Participants typically enter as GS-7s, advance to GS-9 after year one, and complete the program at GS-11. Entry pathways include internal hires, recent graduates, and those transitioning directly from military service.