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Although a juggler may be proficient and esteemed for skillfully juggling only three balls, he/she will
never reach full potential by remaining in this comfort zone. True progression requires sacrifice as well
as a determination to overcome obstacles and achieve goals. Fortunately, the MIL culture encourages
progression and innovative thinking to help clients reach goals and obtain effective operations.

Additionally, MIL encourages employee development and acceptance of new challenges. MIL
management was a key supporter of my decision to take on the role as president of the AGA Charleston
chapter. At the PDT in Boston, I officially achieved one of the primary goals I set for myself and our
chapter at the beginning of my presidency. I received the Platinum Chapter Award, which recognizes the
successful 2016-17 chapter program year that I led. I am appreciative of the unwavering encouragement
and support from MIL management in achieving this goal. Furthermore, the Charleston MIL culture of
professionalism, intelligence, and appreciation for effective work inspires me to continuously strive to
“juggle” new responsibilities, undertake challenges, and establish ambitious goals.
As a final point of the “Off Balance on Purpose” session, Mr. Thurmon expressed that remaining idle is an illusion of productivity.
To visualize, he confidently positioned himself up onto a unicycle in the middle of the session audience. He noted that although he
can pedal hastily, he will remain idle unless he leans forward on the unicycle to start moving. This can be frightening because of the
sensation of falling forward and crashing. However, this is the only method to move forward. I find that MIL provides the “you have
what it takes” enthusiasm that helps move ambitious professionals forward in their careers. Moreover, the MIL leadership structure
provides continuous access to senior colleagues who serve as mentors, which can reduce the fear and intimidation that we all feel
occasionally during the journey of advancing in our careers.
We, the MIL Charleston team, should be proud to exemplify the determination and confidence to embody this “Off Balance on
Purpose” approach. I believe this is a key factor in MIL’s client satisfaction, as well as our exceptional employee gratification, evidenced
by MIL’s placement on “The South Carolina Top Workplaces” publication.

kudos

Toasting C4IS team success! Mr. Stiefvater’s letter goes on to state: “We truly appreciate the
team’s extraordinary efforts and recognize the valuable role
Tom Clark and the C4IS Sector recently held a happy hour as and significant contributions made by each member.” Before
a way to recognize several of its outstanding employees and ending with: “The SATCOM members bring great credit to
to acknowledge a job well-done for MIL’s Special Operations your organization and they have significantly contributed to
Command (SOC) project. MIL recently received a glowing letter the enhanced visibility of the NAWCAD team. Thanks for a job
of appreciation from one of our NAVAIR customers for work on well done and we look forward to collaborating on additional
the SOC engagement. In the letter, NAWCAD 4.11.4 Division installations for United States Special Operations Command.”
Director, James Stiefvater, extends his “sincere appreciation to the During the celebratory gathering, Tom also recognized the service
following Satellite Communication (SATCOM) team members and contributions of several other C4IS members, including
for their outstanding efforts in support of the Special Operations Charles Cole (Employee of the Month for July); Ricky Chesser
Command Europe (SOCEUR) IPN-M Non-classified Internet (Awesome Employee of the Moment Award); and Patrick O’Rear
Protocol Router Network (NIPRNet) Installations: Mr. Edward (MILTON Achievement award).
Christian; Mr. Jeffery Greene; Mrs. Lindsay Frazier; Mr. Lance
Hood, Sr.; Mr. Damian Johnston; Mr. Joshua Pierce; Mr. Garrett Congratulations to the members of the SATCOM team for their
Smith; Mr. Peter Thistle; and former engineer Mr. Courtney exceptional performance and commitment to both MIL and our
Washington, as well as AV3 Corporation team members: Mr. NAVAIR customers!
Brandon Gatton and Mr. Vincent Cucinotta.”

NAWCAD 4.11.4 Division Director, James Stiefvater, and MIL Senior The SATCOM Team: Edward Christian; Jeffery Greene; Lindsay Frazier;
VP Tom Clark Lance Hood, Sr.; Damian Johnston; Joshua Pierce; Garrett Smith; Peter
Thistle
fall 2017 | The MIL Connection | 9