NSWC Dahlgren Division celebrates academic achievements

NSWC Dahlgren Division celebrates academic achievements

By Dave EllisNSWCDD Corporate Communications

Continuing education is the whetstone Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division (NSWCDD) leadership uses to sharpen the tip of the spear in developing innovative weapon systems for the Navy warfighter that will deter and defeat our nation's adversaries. In fiscal year 2024, NSWCDD spent over $2.3 million on tuition through its Academic Development Program (ADP). In fiscal 2024, over 400 employees were approved for tuition assistance through ADP.

NSWCDD Technical Director Dale Sisson Jr., P.E., SES, spoke highly of the program during the annual Academic Recognition Ceremony held Tuesday, October 29, 2024, at the University of Mary Washington Dahlgren Campus. "We're in the talent management business. We've got everyone from new hires who just converted out of our internship program to a department head finishing her doctorate," he said. "I think it's incredibly cool and rewarding to see this many people investing in themselves. We're going to keep this program going strong."

Dr. Jennifer Clift was one of the 189 employees celebrated for achieving an academic milestone. The Weapons and Control department head began her career at NSWCDD as an entry-level secretary in 1997. After being encouraged by a supervisor who said she had the talent and intellect to achieve great things here at Dahlgren, she embarked on an educational odyssey. While balancing family life and various full-time positions at NSWCDDD, Clift finished the last two years of her bachelor's degree, earned two master's degrees and most recently completed her doctorate in engineering management from George Washington University.

During her keynote speech, Clift emphasized her commitment to NSWCDD and her gratitude for the support she has received throughout her career and academic pursuits. "NSWC Dahlgren Division has supported me through four degrees, provided technical and leadership training and awarded me an academic fellowship," she said. "I'm here to serve this organization, our Navy and the warfighters who fight for us every single day. I cannot imagine giving anything less than 100% to this organization after everything they've given me."

Congratulations to everyone for their academic achievements! Their hard work and determination strengthen NSWCDD's ability to meet its strategic goals in support of the Navy and the warfighter.