Q: What is your role at JS Solutions (JSS), and what does a typical day look like for you?
A: In my role, I support the Apache Attack Helicopter Project Office, coordinating with multiple aviation divisions on the establishment of sustainment for Controlled Cryptographic Items (CCI), as well as assisting with the control and handling of both Communication Security (COMSEC) and CCI. My other responsibilities are to support PM Apache in all acquisition and logistics tasks with a focus on Basis of Order Issue Plan (BOIP) and material release efforts.
Q: Where did you work prior to joining JSS? What relevant experience do you bring to your current role?
A: Before joining JSS, I worked for a couple of other companies as a Support Contractor supporting the Security Assistance Management Division (SAMD). I provided logistical support to the US Government Foreign Military Sales (FMS) on the legacy missile system. I also supported legacy programs for over 30 FMS customers.
Through those roles, I learned some hard lessons, but I also learned how the government works. The experience helped me learn what is required from cradle to grave when supporting a specific system. FMS is also a different animal compared to the current equipment. The US Government and FMS don’t always operate with the same rules and guidelines, so I have had to learn how to adapt. It’s helped me learn to think through the complexity of issues and find a solution. When working on PM Apache, each logistican brings something different to the table, and that’s what makes the team effective. Jason and I work well together because our experiences are different, but they complement one another and make our team stronger.
Q: What aspect of your job do you consider yourself an expert in?
A: I would say my expertise is really in problem solving and critical thinking. Whatever the problem is, I try to use a common sense approach to work through it until I find a solution. I am often finding reactive and proactive solutions to problems. Sometimes finding the best solution takes asking for help when I need it and being willing to put my shoulder to the wheel and push until the objective is reached.
Q: Why do you think companies should work with JSS, and how does JSS bring value to its customers?
A: JSS cares about their employees, and that reflects on how they treat and care for their customers. JSS’ president, Jason Swafford, really cares about the success of the team and their success as individuals. He works hard to provide the best qualified help for his customers. JSS has the recruiting skills to get top-of-the-line talent on board to provide the solutions our customers need. No matter what task we take on, we’re going to provide the best support we can. Each JSS team member brings knowledge, experience, focus and a can-do attitude to any project placed in front of them. This coupled with Jason’s work ethic, pushes our team to perform at our highest level.
Q: What makes JSS different from other companies you’ve worked for?
A: JSS is small but mighty, and our team is growing daily. Not only is the team growing, but the capabilities we provide are growing as well. This growth is driven by a team willing to go the extra mile for our customers. Our team works hard and pushes one another because we know we have a leader that really cares about his employees and their families. Before joining the team, Jason’s personality, knowledge, experience and willingness to work with people really gave me the sense that he was going to nurture and grow this company. JSS feels like one happy family, using our skills to support the warfighter.