# DLA Aviation spotlights Kathiria Robinson during Hispanic Heritage Month 

/ Published Oct. 7, 2020
RICHMOND, VA, 
*Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated across the nation every year from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15. The 2020 theme is “Hispanics: Be Proud of Your Past and Embrace the Future.”  Defense Logistics Agency Aviation is proud to feature Kathiria Robinson.*

**I am:** a supervisor within DLA Aviation’s Planning Process Directorate’s Material Planning Division on Defense Supply Center Richmond.

**Describe your job**: I’m in charge of a team of 13 material planners. They are responsible for the overall health of national stock numbers assigned to them and ensuring the items are at optimal stockage levels to support requirements. They also coordinate across disciplines to ensure the data is correct and stay proactive in supporting the warfighter, efficiently and effectively. My daily tasks include assigning work, ensuring the planners remain on track, motivate, guide, mentor, train and provide feedback to my team.

**How long have you worked at DLA Aviation?**I’ve worked at DLA Aviation 10 years.

**What is your favorite thing about working for DLA?**I love working for DLA for many reasons. I really enjoy being a part of the unique support DLA provides to the warfighter and I enjoy the people I work with. Not only have I developed great working relationships, but I have also made many friends. 

**The theme for this month's observance is "Hispanics: Be Proud of Your Past and Embrace the Future." In your words, briefly explain what this means to you?**Many people, especially from Hispanic countries, come to the United States for a better life or opportunity. However, it does not mean that we forget where we come from. I was born and raised in New York, but my parents and most of my family come from Puerto Rico. Growing up, they made sure I knew and embraced my culture. It is a big part of who I am today. Because of my upbringing and my parents instilling in me the value of hard work, I have accomplished a great deal, personally and professionally. I am definitely looking forward to what life has in store for me in the future.

**Tell us something unique about your heritage or country of origin.**Over 200 years ago, Puerto Rico was considered a melting pot of people from different nations and cultures. Our bloodline is a mixture of Sub-Saharan Africans, Spaniards, Taíno (indigenous people of the Caribbean) and Carib Indians.

**What is one thing you'd like others to know about your heritage?** If you find yourself taking a trip to the beautiful island of Puerto Rico, please research and venture out from the usual tourist spots. The island has so much history and you will find the people are nothing short of amazing. Visit the mom and pop stores and restaurants and interact with the people. We are very proud of our heritage and are eager to share our love of the island.  Who knows, you may walk away with a dance lesson or two, full bellies and new friendships.

**Why is it important to you that we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month?** In the United States, the number of Hispanics is on the rise. They are coming from many different countries and with different stories to tell. The history and the contributions Hispanics have made to our country, and are still making today, are important. From fighting alongside Americans to gain independence to the food we eat, there is so much to learn and celebrate.