As I mentioned in my previous post, after a four year absence, I am employed by the U.S. Navy once again. My time with the Department of Commerce, as a contractor, was good, however, I am glad that part of my life is behind me.I definitely learned a lot with NOAA, but found that people, in general, did not understand the experiences I had as an officer in the Navy for twenty years and what I brought to the table. At times it was frustrating to me, because I was completely underutilized. This was precisely the reason I pursued other employment.
I had a manager in my previous job who was an ok manager. He was not, however, a leader. I found it funny one day when he told me I should stick with him and he would teach me how to lead people. I thought he was kidding at first, since I knew he had seen my resume. He wasn't. I quickly reminded him that I had been leading people successfully over twenty years, including command of over 400 officers and sailors during my command tour. He seemed to have no comprehension of what I was saying.
For the past nine months, I've been back with the Navy, and I love it. I won't say the command I work for, but I am working on an admiral's staff once again. This is the third flag staff I have worked on during my Navy tenure. The first one (3-Star afloat Fleet staff) was superb and extremely rewarding. The second (2-Star shore staff) was not so superb and I could not wait to leave (retire). I am currently on a 1-Star type commander staff. It is a relatively large staff, mostly civilians, with some very smart and hard working individuals (military and civilian). We also have a leadership team that knows how to lead.
It is so refreshing to have true leadership in the front office. I missed that very much during those four years. The admiral is a people person who inspires us on a daily basis by his words and actions. One thing I like that the previous admirals I worked for did not do are frequent (sometimes bi-weekly) all hands calls. The admiral, Chief of Staff (COS) and/or Deputy Commander (DC) will interact with us and tell us what is going on and how we are supporting the fleet. They tell us about their recent meetings and interactions with other commands and organizations. This really makes me feel like the small part I play can really make a difference and that I am a part of the team.
They all continually thank us for what we do, whether it be in an email or in person. They are very sincere. Our new DC actually leaves his office and gets around the building to interact with us to see how we are doing. All three are very personable and it makes a world of difference. In addition, the staff frequently gathers for social events, whether they be an informal luncheon, bowling, or a barbeque, to include families.
Life is good and once again, I have an example of leadership to be excited about.
