DLA Energy Shadow Program: Empowering tomorrow’s leaders

FORT BELVOIR, Va. -

Chemist David Grieco recently embraced the opportunity to enhance his professional growth as a participant in the Defense Logistics Agency Energy Shadow Program July 23-25.

Working alongside DLA Energy Supplier Operations Director Keith Sylvia through the shadow program provided an opportunity for Grieco to gain insight into DLA Energy functions, grasp a comprehensive view of how the organization operates, and develop new skills.

"I found the fast-paced work environment to be quite impressive during my time in the program," Grieco said. "In a single day, we addressed command-level activities, conducted discussions with DLA Headquarters, and assessed impacts of introduced legislature."

One of the most enjoyable aspects of Grieco's tenure during the DLA Energy Shadow Program experience was exposure to the internal and external work conducted daily that he said furthered his awareness of the broader work that DLA Energy conducts each day.

"The experience provided the 'Aha!' moment for much of the work I carried out on a day-to-day basis," he said.

As part of DLA Energy's Talent Management Program, the year-round program spans three to five consecutive days and enables selected civilian employees from GS-7 through GS-15 the opportunity to select a senior leader to shadow. The shadowing experience allows participants to closely observe the daily responsibilities of a DLA Energy leader. It is designed to provide participants with valuable career development opportunities, professional networks, exposure to senior leadership and a thorough understanding of DLA Energy.

"This program offers teammates both exposure and experience, which provides them an opportunity to self-assess and determine if they are on correct the azimuth or correct career path," Sylvia said, emphasizing how the shadow program was equally beneficial for him. "Hearing David's perspective during our end of day after-action reviews provided me with additional insight as well as new ideas."

The shadow program supports DLA Energy's commitment to human capital development, which is key to DLA's future success and workforce enhancement.

Grieco recommends the DLA Energy Shadow Program to all DLA Energy employees looking to stay engaged in their work community and understand the broader issues that DLA is tackling.

"If you've ever wondered what the different entities or sections of DLA does, or why they do what they do, the [DLA] Energy Shadow Program is a great way to gain insight into their work and decision-making processes," he said.

"The experience reaffirmed to me that DLA Energy has a team of motivated, energetic and capable individuals," Sylvia said. "Given the right opportunities and environment, they will excel in supporting our nation's Warfighters."

Employees interested in the DLA Energy Shadow Program can learn more in this DLA Today announcement (CAC required).

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