Featuring James Harvey, Sustainment Division (SD) Technical Assistant (TAC) to the Chief
Explain your summary of support for the Sustainment Division. TAC positions can vary by division based on their missions and the Division Chief (DC) priorities. In the SD, to me, my focus is making sure the DC and Branch Chiefs (BC) get the support they need. Personally, I see my job as taking as much as possible off the load of the DC to enable him to focus on the strategic vision and taking care of people. As a retired Army Reserve Logistics officer, I also see my job as working with our DC and BC’s to provide support as needed in an operational environment understanding what sustainment means to the Soldier in the field. Sustainment in the acquisition world and sustainment at the Soldier level can mean two very different things. So, an example in a long list of ways I have supported our team include attending wargames, running staff rides, conducting professional development, complete division taskers, and compiling Weekly Action Reports. In summary, I see myself in a customer service role to support our DC and his leaders, as well as their employees to ensure mission success.
What is most rewarding about your career? The most rewarding part is providing support that has helped Soldiers. We often help Soldiers and other Department of the Army (DA) civilians in ways we never know about. Additionally, my DA civilian career also provides experiences like traveling around the world to support missions. I don’t think you can find this in many other careers like that.
Tell us about something that inspires you. I am a 0346 Logistics Management Specialist. That being said I have been inspired by the DAC technical folks who do great things for our Army.
What advice would give to someone new to DAC? My advice would be to take advantage of all the opportunities that will allow you to grow and learn. DAC has always been a great place to work since I transferred from the Pentagon to AMSAA in 2007 and I have never had a regret.
What is your favorite meal? Tough one…probably when my wife does Taco Tuesday at home.