PICATINNY, NJ (May 1, 2025) - On Thursday, April 24, military and civilian employees from the Army Contracting Command – New Jersey (ACC-NJ) center participated in the nationwide “Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Day.” For its inaugural event, ACC-NJ welcomed more than 50 children from employees, ranging in age from 18 months to 13 years, who all ended the day with a deeper understanding of their parents' role in Army procurement.

The day kicked off with children making ‘thank-you’ cards for local veterans. Throughout the morning, they watched weapons demonstrations from various customers ACC-NJ supports, such as Project Managers Maneuver Ammunition Systems and Combat Ammunition Systems. Children enjoyed receiving “official” ACC-NJ employee badges, designing their own office nameplates, and taking an ”official” polaroid photo in front of the American flag. To keep kids engaged throughout the day, a scavenger hunt was organized, beginning at ACC-NJ and extending across Picatinny Arsenal.

After the children and their parents enjoyed a group luncheon, the children were sworn-in as contracting officers during a warranting ceremony administered virtually by ACC Commanding General Maj. Gen. Douglas Lowrey and ACC-NJ Executive Director Thomas Dougherty.Maj. Gen. Lowrey then tasked the children with writing their first contracts. The children did a great job negotiating fair and reasonable prices on everything from unicorns, cars and houses to 3D printers that will serve to grant every future wish.

The entire event was praised by both parents and non-participants alike, increasing the likelihood it will become a recurring annual tradition.

“This was a really well-organized day with plenty to keep the children busy,” said Kristen Rounsaville, a branch chief for ACC-NJ

ACC-NJ employees’ children enjoying activities at Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Day, April 24, Picatinny, NJ.

ACC-NJ employees’ children enjoying activities at Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Day, April 24, Picatinny, NJ.

ACC-NJ employees’ children enjoying activities at Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Day, April 24, Picatinny, NJ.

who participated in the event. “The range of activities were both fun and educational for every age. My daughter even asked to learn about the structure of a contract after seeing the front page at the warranting ceremony.”