ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND, Md. — Motivated to support national defense, Ehsan Sherdil joined CECOM in early 2024 as a supply systems analyst. A graduate of the University of California, Davis, he brought risk management experience from First Republic Bank, which collapsed in 2023 amid the broader banking turmoil triggered by the failure of Silicon Valley Bank.
Sherdil described the California banking environment as relatively relaxed in terms of workplace culture with casual dress codes and informal communication styles. He contrasted this with the more formal and structured environment he later encountered in federal service.
“I saw an opportunity to apply analytical discipline to serve something greater,” Sherdil said.
Behind the numbers
At CECOM, Sherdil works within the Logistics Technical Supply Division, where he manages coding changes for National Stock Numbers —unique identifiers for military equipment. His work ensures that Soldiers and logistics planners have accurate, up-to-date information on everything from spare parts to full systems.
“Each NSN has layers of data—codes that tell you how long something lasts, where it’s serviced, if it has a warranty,” Sherdil explained. “It’s all about making sure the right information is there to support the mission.”
Sherdil has played a key role in two major initiatives. One is the development of CECOM University, a centralized training platform designed to help employees identify skills and courses needed to advance in their roles. The other is the Tiger Team project, a sweeping effort to identify and eliminate obsolete inventory.
“What began as an audit of roughly 20,000 NSNs quickly grew to 40,000 entries—covering over $700 million in material—and, by retiring the 20,000 obsolete items ahead of schedule, our team has already delivered $82 million in cost savings for the Army.” Sherdil said.
He also introduced a visual tracking system that accelerated project completion and improved cross-team collaboration.
“It’s rewarding to know our work has a real impact.”
Cross-country changes
Sherdil’s move from California to Maryland wasn’t without challenges. His household goods were still in transit and his new home was empty when he arrived on the east coast. He stayed with relatives in Arlington, commuting daily to Aberdeen, and quickly purchased the items needed to stay on track with key operational milestones.
Outside work, he is engaged with the community, from teeing off on local golf courses to exploring Baltimore’s Federal Hill with friends he’s made. “Immersing myself in Maryland life—through early-morning commutes and forging new friendships—has helped me grow and sharpened my focus on delivering results,” Sherdil reflects.
Looking ahead, Sherdil hopes to move into a leadership role in logistics or project management.
“My advice to others starting out? Focus on training, stay curious, and always be ready for the next opportunity,” he said.
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