PaCE program graduates recognized during annual ceremony

Personnel in Defense Logistics Agency Aviation's Pathways to Career Excellence program celebrated a career milestone during an Oct. 9 ceremony honoring their graduation from the two-year training program at Defense Supply Center Richmond, Virginia.

Graduates from PaCE groups 42, 43 and 44, which concluded between August 2023 and August 2024, collectively represented three of the 10 PaCE career fields: contract, supply and quality assurance.

The PaCE program is a two-year training program designed to train entry-level personnel for subsequent advancement to the journey-level in professional, administrative and technological career fields. This is accomplished through on-the-job assignments, cross-training, and formal training such as classroom, distance learning, web-based training, conferences and seminars.

Spencer Shaffer, director of DLA Aviation's Business Process Support, delivered the keynote address and offered advice to the graduates as they embark on the next stage of their careers by sharing his favorite motivational quote by Confucius: "Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall."

"This quote serves as a reminder that success is not defined by never making mistakes, but rather by how we respond to those mistakes and continue to move forward," Shaffer said.

He added that graduates should always remain true to themselves, be willing to take risks and be willing to learn and to give back.

"The world is constantly changing, and it is essential to stay up to date with the latest developments and trends," Shaffer said. "Stay curious, ask questions, and never stop learning. This will not only benefit you personally, but it will also make you a more valuable asset to any organization or community that you are a part of."

Air Force Brig. Gen. Chad Ellsworth, commander, DLA Aviation and Defense Supply Center Richmond, delivered closing remarks.

For those interested in embarking on a new career path, visit the DLA PaCE Program website.

Additionally, DLA Pathways Internship Program offers opportunities for students enrolled in accredited schools the chance to gain work experience related to their academic career goals. This program allows for flexible work schedules, year-round employment and the potential for noncompetitive conversions to a federal career after graduation. For more information, visit the Office of Personnel Management page.