Army Civilian Dedicated to Supporting Crane Army Workforce

By Ms. Mallory Haag (AMC)February 27, 2020

Army Civilian Dedicated to Supporting Crane Army Workforce
Crane Army Ammunition Activity Equal Employment Opportunity Specialist Angel Rudd briefs teammates on upcoming minority representation programs. As EEO specialist, Rudd raises awareness for EEO principles, teaching and training employees and ensuring they are able to work in a discrimination-free environment. Crane Army specializes in conventional munitions support for U.S. Army and Joint Force readiness, including storage, quality control, shipment preparation, distribution, production and demilitarization. (Photo Credit: Mallory Haag) VIEW ORIGINAL

CRANE, Ind. - Crane Army's greatest asset is its people. To ensure those people are protected and their voices heard, CAAA invests in a robust Equal Employment Opportunity program. Based on the 1964 Civil Rights Protection Act, the EEO program works to eliminate discrimination in the federal government, and Crane Army and the EEO specialist helps provide the workforce with equal opportunities to grow and work in a safe environment. The EEO program is essential for providing a discrimination-free workplace.

In addition to taking care of Crane Army employees, CAAA EEO Specialist Angel Rudd ensures that the Activity maintains compliance with EEO principles and regulations based on Title VII of the Civil Rights Act 1964 prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, or sex.

"I think education and teaching people is really the biggest part, because some people don't know the EEO Process and the implementation or aren't familiar with it," Rudd said. "We can learn something every day and be better every day. Will we ever be perfect? Maybe not, but we can try and we can get closer each time."

Rudd works with employees across Crane Army. In addition to advising CAAA leadership and assisting those facing discrimination issues, Rudd also implements discrimination prevention and sensitivity training. She also manages special programs that ensures representation for women and minorities.

"She's able to see things from a programmatic standpoint," Chief of Staff Joe Mikac said about Rudd. "In the issues we discuss, she can look at a situation and see the effect on people and what they need from an EEO standpoint. She strives to find solutions that are fair to all parties, while at the same time making sure that CAAA is in compliance with EEO law."

Rudd has served the Army's people her entire career. During her 20 years of active duty service as a U.S. Army Soldier, Rudd received support from countless leaders helping her to grow as a professional and adapt to the competitive environment as she rose through the ranks.

"They allowed me to make mistakes and gave me the opportunity to show my gift and what I brought to the team," Rudd said.

After retiring as a master sergeant in 2011, Rudd made her way back to the Army as a civilian, building upon her military experience taking care of Soldiers.

"I joined the military and learned so much more about life," Rudd said. "After I retired, I was able to get that back by coming back to the federal government and enjoying what I do: connecting with individuals and understanding that every employee has a voice, helping those people and seeking resolution."

Driven by a desire to be a part of something bigger than herself, Rudd said the values of the Army were always something that came second nature to her and is the reason she continues to serve.

"My dad said it's best to leave a person better than when you found them and I hold that close to my heart and the Army Values really capitalized on that," Rudd said. "I think my military career molded me into being a good EEO specialist."

As for her effect on Crane Army, Rudd continuously meets with the workforce in order to better understand the needs and concerns they have and implement them into her goals for the program.

"Angel is a very compassionate and caring person who really wants the best for everyone and I think that is reflected in the different training programs she develops," Mikac said.

Rudd continues to serve CAAA and the warfighter by amplifying employee's voices and ensuring their fair treatment regardless of background, a cause that is important to her.

"It could be busy at times but I had a passion for it. I am never tired or overwhelmed and feel accomplished each day," Rudd said. "I enjoy making a difference."

Crane Army Ammunition Activity produces and provides conventional munitions in support of U.S. Army and Joint Force readiness. It is part of the Joint Munitions Command and the U.S. Army Materiel Command, which include arsenals, depots, activities and ammunition plants. Established Oct. 1977, it is located on Naval Support Activity Crane.