ANNISTON ARMY DEPOT, Ala. -- Anniston Army Depot leaders convened Jan. 10 in the first quarterly Supervisory All Hands meeting in an effort to improve communication across the installation from the most senior official to the employee.
For more than three hours, 225 managers and supervisors assembled for the purpose of enhancing interactive conversation, addressing issues, expanding leadership skills and discussing ways to help each other become more effective and efficient while improving employee performance.
"Throughout the course of a day, many of our schedules are consumed with managing people, priorities, production and resources," said depot commander Col Martine Kidd, while welcoming the participants. "We must not forget to help each other and share information."
First line supervisors are in a unique position, whereas they serve as the connection between management and the workforce. "From my desk to the employee on the shop floor, we are stronger together when information flows," she added. "We are a network of leaders and we rely on each other."
It's important to realize that ANAD has approximately 2,700 employees who occupy over 2,300 building and structures covering 15,000 acres.
These artisans ensure the warfighters have the weaponry, components and vehicles needed to successfully accomplish their mission of serving our nation. For that reason, effective communication between supervisors and employees has to be at its peak.
Facilitators discussed specific topics to include the Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention Program, safety, quality, legal, the disciplinary process, workman's compensation and the Employee Assistance Program.
"As a leader, you set the appropriate tone for your organization," said Tim Rolfe, the depot's Army Community Service director, who also serves as the sexual assault response coordinator. "Inappropriate topics, jokes and horseplay of a sexual nature have no place in the workplace. We must uphold the Army Standards of Conduct while supporting a positive work environment."
Following each topic of discussion, attendees often asked questions for clarity or gleaned information from their peers.
According to Jeremy Barnett, a branch chief of approximately three years in the Directorate of Public Works, "this was great refresher training."
"I wish we could have spent more time on some of the topics, but maybe the upcoming sessions will allow that," he said.
"It helps me professionally," said Marcus Briskey, a supervisor in the Directorate of Production's Stryker Division. "There are probably areas that we can all improve upon and I appreciate the efforts being made to assist us."
The next session is scheduled for April 5 at 7:30 a.m. in the DeSoto Pastime Center.
Social Sharing