Rebekah Brown takes the PACE spotlight

Rebekah R. Brown, a member of the Defense Logistics Agency Disposition Services’ Pathways to Career Excellence Group 50, says the two-year development program is delivering the blend of training and on-the-job experience she sought when she left DLA Distribution to accelerate her federal career.

“I wanted to join PACE because of its reputation for fast-tracking professional growth,” Brown said, noting that the program’s mix of classroom education and operational rotations is helping her build a stronger understanding of how DLA supports the warfighter.

Brown came to the program from an inventory lead role at DLA Distribution. “Prior to PACE, I served as an inventory lead for DLA Distribution,” she said, adding that the work offered a front-row view of how the agency’s supply chain underpins readiness for customers around the world.

A central draw so far, she said, has been the people-centric environment. “I truly appreciate the collaborative culture,” Brown said. “Both my peers and senior leadership are incredibly supportive, creating an environment where it is safe to ask questions and continuous learning is encouraged.”

Community service has also shaped her experience. Brown recalled a standout moment from her first year in Michigan: “My most memorable moment was playing the Easter Bunny at a Family, Morale, Welfare, and Recreation event in Battle Creek.” The experience resonated beyond the photo ops. “I believe the best gift you can give is your time,” she said.

As she looks ahead to the program’s second year, Brown is preparing to take her skills to the field. “I will be assigned to Fort Sill, Oklahoma,” she said. “I look forward to applying my training to solve real problems and complex supply chain issues.” She added that teamwork will remain a priority: “No one gets through this life without the help and support of others.”

For new PACERS, Brown’s advice centers on curiosity, resilience and respect. “Remember that every day is an opportunity to learn from your mistakes, so take risks and keep moving forward,” she said, urging peers to ask questions, stay adaptable and keep an open mind. She also shared guidance that stuck with her from a leader she shadowed: “Mr. Cannon said this to me when I had the opportunity to shadow him: give yourself and others grace and show mercy when needed.”

Brown sees PACE as a springboard to a longer-term leadership path. “My goal is to obtain my professional certifications, advance to a GS-12 lead role, and eventually step into a supervisory position where I can mentor others and continue to give back to the workforce and the agency,” she said. For prospective applicants, she offered this summation: “PACE bridges the gap between potential and expertise, giving you a structured, fast- tracked pathway to a meaningful and high-impact career in federal service. Your career is in your hands, so I recommend linking up with mentors who are already in the career you aspire to have.”

She also suggested one way to further strengthen the program: expand early cross-functional rotations and site visits to more DLA depots to help participants build a comprehensive view of the enterprise from the start.

PACE, run by DLA Disposition Services, is a two-year pipeline that immerses participants in the organization’s business processes and directorates. The first year is based at the major subordinate command headquarters in Michigan; the second year places Contracting trainees back in Battle Creek and property disposal trainees at field sites. Participants enter as GS-7 employees, move to GS-9 after the first year, and complete the program at the GS-11 level. Candidates can be selected internally from DLA, apply as recent graduates, or transition directly from active military service.

Outside of work, Brown enjoys long walks on the beach, reading, music, and spending time with her family, including her son, two daughters and four granddaughters.