Leadership Is More Than a Title: The Evolution of a Veteran Professional
Leadership Through People: How Investing in Human Performance Drives Organizational Success
Over the years, my professional philosophy has been that leadership isn't about having the highest title. Leaders are developed by taking ownership and by our ability to train others. Process improvements foster the removal of ambiguity, as well as complacency, within an organization. Let's be honest with ourselves here: automation is taking over the workplace. While technology provides solutions to a firm's biggest challenges, I believe it is human error that is worth investing in. What I mean is, the human element within supply deserves the most attention!
As a Navy veteran, I experienced the manpower that goes into mooring a ship to a pier, conducting underway replenishment, and managing inventory operations. Today, I work within the civilian sector of supply and continue to see the significance of communication, accountability, and human performance. My experience in both fields has shown me that regardless of how advanced technology becomes, successful operations ultimately depend on the people using it. My background in training, leadership, process improvement, and employee performance has reinforced my belief that investing in people is just as important as any investment in technology. When employees are properly trained, supported, and given the tools to succeed, organizations are better positioned to work alongside technology rather than simply setting the timer and waiting for the end result.
I have advanced in my professional identity from Petty Officer Wade to Khaylah Wade, Team Lead for Operations Support. It's the effort behind the title that deserves the recognition here. Our professional identities are defined by how we approach problems, people, and the work we complete daily. I've discovered that I enjoy understanding why processes work or don't work, and I naturally look for ways to improve things. For now, I'm continuing to look for ways to intersect people, processes, and, of course, technology.
