# DLA Distribution Puget Sound deploys modernized warehouse system 

/ Published Jan. 11, 2023
NEW CUMBERLAND, Pa., 
Defense Logistics Agency celebrated another deployment of its modernized warehouse management system with a ceremony Dec. 15 at DLA Distribution Puget Sound, Washington. 

“This system will help us improve our operations, help us provide better support to our customers, the warfighters and ultimately it takes us one step closer to meeting the DoD’s audit readiness mandate,” DDPW Commander, Navy Cmdr. Timothy J. Calvo, said.                 BREMERTON-Rear Adm. Grafton D. Chase, Commander Defense Logistics Agency Distribution (left) looks on as Cmdr. Timothy J. Calvo (right), Commander, DLA Distribution Puget Sound, delivers remarks during a ceremony marking the implementation of the organization's new Warehouse Management System in Bremerton. (U.S. Navy photo by Brian J. Davis).                            221215-N-NY993-2147                            BREMERTON-Rear Adm. Grafton D. Chase, Commander Defense Logistics Agency Distribution (left) looks on as Cmdr. Timothy J. Calvo (right), Commander, DLA Distribution Puget Sound, delivers remarks during a ceremony marking the implementation of the organization's new Warehouse Management System in Bremerton. (U.S. Navy photo by Brian J. Davis).            SHARE IMAGE:Download ImageImage DetailsPhoto By: Brian J. DavisVIRIN: 221215-N-NY993-2147

By implementing WMS, DLA Distribution has set the stage to create a modernized storage and distribution network. WMS is key to improving productivity. This new system strengthens internal controls, improves financial practices, streamlines processes, increases audit readiness and improves reporting capabilities and communication between DLA and customers.

Across the board, the goal of modernizing is to simplify processes that reduce cost and improve performance. WMS is just one critical element in the DLA Distribution goods to person strategy that incorporates wireless and mobile technologies and integrates with the industry standard WMS. Collectively, these elements will provide a more efficient and productive network.

Slightly less than three months ago, this past September, DLA Distribution Puget Sound was notified to roll out the WMS system. Immediately, DLA Headquarters, DLA Distribution and DDPW teams rolled up their sleeves and started working to meet system requirements and develop an execution plan for the center’s WMS Go-Live date.

After nearly five weeks of testing and training, the WMS went live at DDPW Dec. 5. The Dec. 15 ceremony, hosted by DLA Distribution commander, Navy Rear Adm. Grafton D. Chase,  gave employees a chance to collectively reflect on their hard work.                 Paul Smith, material handler for Defense Logistics Agency Distribution Puget Sound, Washington, offloads a freight elevator after receiving a bulk shipment that will support the USS Ohio. (Photo by Kyrene Fawcett, DLA Distribution Puget Sound)                            DLA Distribution Puget Sound deploys modernized warehouse system                            Paul Smith, material handler for Defense Logistics Agency Distribution Puget Sound, Washington, offloads a freight elevator after receiving a bulk shipment that will support the USS Ohio. (Photo by Kyrene Fawcett, DLA Distribution Puget Sound)            SHARE IMAGE:Download ImageImage DetailsPhoto By: Kyrene FawcettVIRIN: 220301-D-D0441-7650

Chase highlighted significant contributions by people and departments from several teams at DLA Headquarters, DLA Distribution Headquarters and DLA Distribution Puget Sound. Lessons learned through implementation will be incorporated at other locations. DLA Distribution Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, is the next DLA Distribution location scheduled to deploy WMS in February. All DLA Distribution locations will deploy the new system by 2025.

DDPW is the Navy's second largest shipyard and intermediate repair facility and the only one of its kind on the west coast. This distribution center is best known for its nuclear propulsion and submarine materiel support. DDPW serves as the support center for ships preparing for deployment to various areas of the Pacific and Middle East. DDPW’s employees’ hard work, dedication and commitment have had a profound impact on both local and worldwide customers and most importantly, the warfighter.