Spotlight on...Michelle Brown-Earlywine

By ACC public affairsMay 3, 2012

Spotlight on...Michelle Brown-Earlywine
(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

As the Army Contracting Command lead defense travel administrator and headquarters' super-user for the Automated Time Attendance and Production System, Michelle Brown-Earlywine provides travel assistance and guidance to the staff and subordinate commands and ensures the workforce is paid in a timely manner.

"On the pay side of the house," she said, "if the employee is not receiving pay, they're not working; therefore, no pay plus no work equals the Soldiers' requirements aren't being met."

It's a dedication and commitment she takes seriously and in which she draws from more than 13 years working with different commands. In addition, Brown-Earlywine has participated in a multitude of training opportunities to include courses at the Defense Acquisition University to help in her current position. She also is expected to earn a bachelor's degree in psychology later this year.

"The knowledge I bring to the table regarding all the travel idiosyncrasies helps our employees get to where they need to be in a timely manner," she said. "We cannot fail in this or the mission will fail. My motto is 'get 'er done' but the right way, not the short way."

Born and raised in Germany, Brown-Earlywine finds the culture of living abroad amazing. She admits that "home is where you hang your hat and right now that is Alabama."

It's a home she enjoys with her 15-year-old son, Aiden; her dog, Mr. Tucker; and, a partner of 11 years, Erin Kirkpatrick. She participates in and teaches Zumba classes and volunteers as a soccer and cheerleading coach at the YMCA.

"Zumba has become a big part of my life," she said. "It overhauls your mind, body and spirit if you have the right teacher and good music. If you haven't tried a Zumba class, I challenge you to attend one. You will fall in love with it. The best thing is you don't have to be a dancer to enjoy the atmosphere."

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