# National Disability Employment Awareness Month Spotlight - Aisha Thompson

/ Published Oct. 27, 2023
RICHMOND, Va., 
*During the month of October, the nation observes*National Disability Employment Awareness Month*. Defense Logistics Agency Aviation recognizes the contributions of all workers with disabilities, past and present, to cultivate supportive, inclusive policies and practices that benefit employees and people alike.*

*Aisha Thompson, a Procurement Tech in Aviation’s Post Award Division, Supplier Operations Directorate, has been a member of the DLA Aviation workforce for 17 years. She received a bachelor’s degree from Norfolk State University and hired through DLA’s Career Opportunities for Persons with Disabilities program. Thompson says she loves working at DLA and has worked in almost every area of the Post Award Division.*

*Thompson, who has cerebral palsy, says she has had several supervisors over the years, and sometimes they were unsure of how to accommodate her physical disabilities. This illustrates the importance learning how to interact with individuals with physical challenges.*

Recently, representatives from DLA’s Equal Employee Opportunity program reached out to Aisha who was happy to share her experience working at Aviation. 

**What is your job title and what do you do specifically?** I am a procurement technician.  I assist the contract administrators by making sure the vendors are receiving payment and help resolve any issues the customer may have after the receipt of the materials.

**What is your fondest memory of working for DLA Aviation?**My fondest memory at DLA Aviation is when the construction of bldg. 46 was complete. I thought the building was beautiful, and I was excited about this new space we would soon be moving into. I also thought the new cafeteria was nice, except I wished there were more standard-level dining tables to go alongside the bistro tables and wheelchair accessible buttons on the restroom doors. I mentioned these issues to my then supervisor and the changes were made. I love the fact that my organization responded to my concerns. I feel very fortunate to work for DLA.

**If you could speak directly to the warfighters you support, what would you tell them****?**I want the warfighter to know my commitment to them. I want them to know that I don’t let my disability stop me. Each day I put my best foot forward to work, train, and do my part to keep material moving. 

**Professionally, where do you see yourself five years from now?****** In the next five years, I see myself continuing to support the warfighter through DLA Aviation, living a comfortable life and looking forward to retirement. It’s a big deal to have a job these days!

**If you had a theme song, what would it be and why****?**My theme song would be “Smile (Living My Best Life)” by Lil Duval featuring Snoop Dogg. It motivates me to go harder in my pursuit of living out my dreams.

Before DLA Aviation, I didn’t know if I could live on my own with my disabilities. I earned a bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies but was unsure of how I was going to make it on my own. Seventeen years later, I am moving forward to someday owning my own home with hopes of one day retiring. I would say I am living my best life!                 During the month of October, National Disability Employment Awareness Month recognizes America’s disabled workers, past and present, and celebrates their contributions. (Graphic by U.S. Department of Labor)                            National Disability Employment Awareness Month Spotlight - Aisha Thompson                            During the month of October, National Disability Employment Awareness Month recognizes America’s disabled workers, past and present, and celebrates their contributions. (Graphic by U.S. Department of Labor)            SHARE IMAGE:Download ImageImage DetailsPhoto By: U.S. Department of LaborVIRIN: 231016-D-D0441-1002

**If you could pick a personal motto, what would it be and why?** My motto is: put your best foot forward and keep it moving. Let your light shine and don’t let anyone blow out your candle.

Cerebral palsy has greatly affected my life. However, I don’t let my struggles get to me. Each day I’m reminded of my limitations, but my light continues to shine. So, when others see me, they can see what is possible by putting their best foot forward and letting their light shine.

It’s time for ***Advancing Access and Equity***. For more information, contact Defense Logistics Agency’s Equal Employment Opportunity and Diversity office.