Women's Equality Day Spotlight: Margaret Ross

NEW CUMBERLAND, Pa. -

In honor of Women's Equality Day, Defense Logistics Agency Distribution is spotlighting Margaret Ross, the director of Acquisition Operations.

Women's Equality Day celebrates the adoption of the 19th Amendment to the Constitution, which gave women the right to vote. This historical milestone marked a significant step forward for gender equality and women's rights.

Ross became the director of Acquisitions Operations in July 2021, leading a team of 99 employees, performing acquisition planning, contract quality management, government purchase card, accountable property, supply stock management and requisition process functions.

Ross believes that it is important to recognize Women's Equality Day.

"I recognize that there are things we take for granted today as a right, only because women generations ago fought hard to secure them for us," she said. "I think it is important for us to continue to exercise these rights, not just to fulfill public duty, but also so their fight does not go uncelebrated. It is mind-boggling that women only secured the right to vote a little over 100 years ago."

She said that taking time to recognize those who have helped lead the call for change is vital.

"It is very important to highlight persons that have faced inequality throughout the year, so we do not forget where we came from," she said. "The successes that we experience today are in large part due to the hard efforts invested by someone in the past."

Ross believes that women's equality has improved significantly in the workplace.
"Speaking broadly, I think discussion around pay for women has improved equality," she said. "Highlighting the issue has given a voice to women and brought some parity to salary, I do think there is certainly room for improvement in certain areas of industry, but what we have learned is that we need to advocate for ourselves."

Ross also spoke about her experiences working in government acquisition.

"I feel very fortunate in my experience throughout my career," she said "In acquisition, we have a fairly balanced workforce, that I think provides opportunities regardless of gender. That said, I have invested a lot of time and energy in my career. Sometimes that came from a place of having "fear of missing out" and wanting to ensure that I was at the table to work through challenges that came to our office."

A challenge that remains for women today in the workplace is advocating for yourself, said Ross.

"I think for anyone, being your own advocate is a challenge," she said. "There are times when we suffer in silence, rather than introduce a difficult topic. I have found as I grow older that no one will speak up for me - it is necessary sometimes to have the difficult conversation. Good supervisors are willing to broach those topics with you."

Ross had advice for young women who are entering the workforce.

"Speak up when you have a concern. If you do not feel heard, do not be afraid to raise to the next level. Spend time investing in yourself to continue to improve your capabilities - opportunities often have to be chased, they don't land on your desk."

Public link

Please use the above public link if you want to share this noodl on another website.