Navy Installations Command honors top civilians

WASHINGTON — Commander, Navy Installations Command on Thursday named three headquarters employees as its 2025 Civilians of the Year, recognizing contributions in human resources, data analytics, and contract management that support the Navy’s global shore enterprise.

“Our civilian teammates are the backbone of our operations, providing the critical expertise and unwavering support necessary to execute our mission and support the Fleet,” said Vice Adm. Gray, commander of Navy Installations Command. “Their daily contributions ensure our installations remain ready and resilient.”

Bertha Clay, director of Civilian Human Resources, received the Supervisory Civilian of the Year award. She helped the command navigate major organizational changes, overseeing the transfer and integration of more than 2,500 employees from other commands. Clay guided the rollout of new return-to-office policies, helped the organization plan for potential government shutdowns to avoid interruptions, and advanced employee wellness efforts.

Brighid Patterson, a management and program analyst with the Strategy and Warfare Integration directorate, was selected as Senior Non-Supervisory Civilian of the Year. She led development of the CNIC commander’s dashboard, a tool that gives leaders real-time visibility into installation operations. Her work turning complex data into actionable options has supported priorities such as the Requirements Based Budget initiative and sharpened decision-making across the shore enterprise.

Antoinelle Hansley, a program analyst in Strategy and Warfare Integration, earned Junior Non-Supervisory Civilian of the Year. She reviewed and processed 42 complex contract packages worth $43.7 million, preventing delays and ensuring compliance. Her efforts sustained key shore programs, including the Navy’s Motorcycle Safety program, while maintaining audit readiness.

“We are incredibly proud of these awardees and of all the civilians who make up our CNIC team,” Gray said. “Your hard work does not go unnoticed.”

CNIC manages U.S. Navy shore installation operations worldwide, developing and sustaining infrastructure and quality-of-life programs that underpin readiness. The command oversees 10 Navy regions, 70 installations, and a workforce of more than 48,600, reflecting the Navy’s view of its bases as essential warfighting platforms that support fleet operations.