PEARL HARBOR, Hawaii -

Mike Leskovec is retiring after nearly two decades with Defense Logistics Agency Disposition Services, but his next chapter promises to be just as adventurous and rewarding as his career has been.

"I've had a lot of different roles, served in multiple locations, and met a lot of incredible people," said Leskovec, who joined the agency in 2007 after a distinguished 25-year Navy career and several years working as a government contractor. "But now, it's time for the next chapter. I'll sleep in a little later and take life at a slower pace."

Leskovec's DLA journey began as a scheduler after retiring from the Navy as a senior chief petty officer. Over the next several years, he steadily advanced through the ranks, reaching GS-11 in 2010. He wore many hats throughout his career, taking on additional roles as a disposition support representative, scrap yard manager, demilitarization coordinator, CPV technician, and operations supervisor. He also completed three deployments to Afghanistan.

"My career was like a long ride with lots of different waves to catch," Leskovec said. "Each role, each challenge, brought something new and taught me something valuable."

One of his proudest accomplishments was being part of the transition process as DLA Disposition Services moved from Barber's Point to Pearl Harbor and adapting to new systems such as the switch from DAISY to DSS to WMS. These efforts helped streamline operations and increase efficiency for the agency, even as his scope of responsibility grew significantly.

"We were asked to do more, with fewer resources, but we made it happen," he said. "The agency has changed a lot over the years and seeing how much we've been able to accomplish has been amazing."

The increased workload, especially with the implementation of audit readiness and new requirements for evidential matter, has been one of the most significant challenges faced by DLA Disposition Services in recent years. But for Leskovec, the key to overcoming these challenges always laid in a simple principle.

"Work as a team," he said. "I've always believed in working together to get things done. We have some incredibly talented people here, and there's always willing to step in and help."

When it came to leadership, Leskovec took a laid-back approach. He infused humor into the work environment, knowing that a good laugh could help ease tension during stressful situations. Yet, he never compromised on getting the job done right and efficiently.

"I think my leadership style was about creating a positive environment where people felt supported," he said. "You have to keep morale up, but you also have to get results. You need a balance of humor and hard work."

Faron Cordrey, the agency's director for property disposal across the Pacific region, reflected on Leskovec's leadership with admiration. "Mike is Mike-what more can I say? Never out for the fanfare, he was always job-focused and made things happen. Throughout his illustrious Navy and DLA career, that is what Mike did ... he made sure things got done! I wish him all the best in a well-deserved retirement."

Poma Darasamay, who worked alongside Mike for many years, wrote "Thank you for all your support, for always believing in me, and for all the laughs along the way. We'll miss your green shirt, jeans, and that ever-growing stack of Popeyes cups. Also, please stay off ladders-we're pretty sure they're the only thing that can bring you down now! Wishing you the best, and may your next adventure be as crispy as your Popeyes chicken!"

It was never a dull moment with Leskovec, whose sense of humor was legendary among his colleagues. When asked what was the funniest or most unexpected thing that ever happened at DLA, Leskovec didn't miss a beat.

"Working with Poma," he said, citing Darasamay as the most fun colleague to work with because, as he put it, "She started out in an entry-level position but advanced upward through her hard work and determination while maintaining a sense of humor."

When asked whose influence had the biggest impact on him throughout his career, he cited "various co-workers in different aspects." Looking ahead to retirement, Leskovec said he is most excited about the prospect of a slower pace of life.

"I'm looking forward to not getting up as early. It's going to be nice to have that flexibility and time to enjoy things a little more," he said.

Though he currently lives in Hawaii, he looks forward to spending time with his daughter, who lives in Ohio, as well as with his son, who resides in Hawaii. He's excited about the opportunity to enjoy more quality time with his wife and their dog, while balancing visits between both his children while splitting his time between the peaceful surroundings of Hawaii and cherished family moments in Ohio.

As for his next steps, Leskovec isn't sure exactly what the future holds, but he's ready for whatever comes.

"I haven't planned anything specific just yet, but I'm sure I'll find something to keep me busy," he said.

While he's stepping away from DLA Disposition Services, Leskovec's connection to the agency won't fade completely. He plans to stay in touch with former colleagues and join in on potlucks and gatherings.

"I'll miss the steady paycheck," he joked. "But I'll miss the people more. The camaraderie, the teamwork. It's been a pleasure."

For his colleagues, Leskovec has one final piece of advice.

"Stay the course. Be persistent, but also patient. Everything takes time, but if you keep working hard and supporting each other, the job will always get done."

With retirement on the horizon, Mike Leskovec is ready to take on his next adventure, confident that his time at DLA Disposition Services has prepared him well for whatever comes next. And if it involves Popeyes chicken along the way, all the better!

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