The Presidential Rank Award honors exceptional members of the Senior Executive Service who have made extraordinary and lasting contributions to the federal government. It is considered to be the most prestigious civil service award.
Winners in the distinguished category represent 1% of the SES workforce across the federal government.
“What an honor to be recognized with this award,” said Watern. “However, I can’t take full credit for it. The credit belongs to our amazing AFLCMC team that excels every day in defense of our nation and allies.”
As executive director, Watern focuses on developing the workforce and ensuring AFLCMC has the workforce it needs to do the mission.
“You are only as good as your workforce,” Watern said. “They are the foundation of every successful organization and mission.”
A workforce initiative she has led includes working to shorten the time it takes to hire new employees by using expedited hiring authorities, where candidates are able to interview with hiring officials, receive a job offer, negotiate pay, complete fingerprinting, initiate background checks, all in one day.
Watern was also instrumental in helping stand up Kessel Run, the organization that has revolutionized the way the Air Force builds and delivers software capabilities.
One piece of career advice she gives is to always be willing to help do what it takes to get the job done.
“‘How can I help,’ are the magic words you can say to your boss and teammates,” said Watern. “Those simple words can make a big difference.”
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