Army Materiel Command Executive Deputy Provides Civilians Career Guidance
June 13, 2014
ROCK ISLAND, Ill. -- The Army Materiel Command's executive deputy to the commanding general, John B. Nerger, conducted a career development forum to Headquarters, Joint Munitions Command employees here, June 11.
"I'm an Army civilian and proud of it. I hope you are too," Nerger said as he started his presentation. "What you do is so important to our Army."
Nerger's presentation emphasized why Army civilians are vital to the Army's mission. As AMC's top civilian leader, it was a unique opportunity for the JMC workforce to hear his message of professionalism and commitment.
Nerger discussed his insights on civilian leadership. He believes leadership can be demonstrated at every level, regardless of grade. As civilian professionals, he challenged civilians to embrace difficult assignments and use them as an opportunity to grow and excel. He also encouraged civilians to expand their experiences through continuous learning. He feels if you embrace these challenges, you can create a positive impact on both your personal and professional development.
Nerger also believes the Army civilian should strive to possess "character, integrity, values, introspection, leadership, innovation, adaptation and networking abilities."
"We all need to be stretched and encouraged to perform," added Nerger. "That's where real learning comes from." He believes it is beneficial to "keep your career exciting" and to always look for opportunities to learn and improve performance.
Three forums were provided to different target audiences; senior executive leaders, civilians with more than 11 years of government service and civilians with 10 years or less of government service.
The forums discussed; expectations of leadership; mentoring opportunities; continuous learning opportunities; how to become multi-functional; professional development opportunities; mapping and planning your career and understanding the Army, AMC and JMC relationships.
These forums provided military leaders and civilians with the "opportunity to gain a perspective on civilian leadership and the path ahead for AMC and JMC," said Brig. Gen. Kristin K. French, JMC commander.
Headquartered at the Rock Island Arsenal, JMC produces small-, medium- and large-caliber ammunition items for the Department of Defense. JMC is the logistics integrator for life-cycle management of ammunition and provides a global presence of technical support to U.S. combat units wherever they are stationed or deployed. The headquarters employs approximately 660 Department of the Army civilians.