PaCE Spotlight: McKenzie Brinkerhoff
 By Liz Norvey
  McKenzie Brinkerhoff is a current member of PaCE Group 44 beginning in 2022. For her second year in the PaCE Program, she is assigned to the DLA Disposition Services site in Barstow, California. **McKenzie Brinkerhoff official photo with American and DLA flag in background
        McKenzie Brinkerhoff
            McKenzie Brinkerhoff is a current member of Pathways to Career Excellence Group 44 beginning in 2022.

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                    Photo By: Jace Armstrong
                    
                    VIRIN: 231120-D-D0441-4001** I would describe the program as an amazing entry-level gateway opportunity for those interested in a career with the Federal Government. The learning opportunities are beneficial for gaining leadership skills, a selection of career choices (should you be interested in a change), and building promising working relationships that benefit your future with this agency. **Why did you first apply to the PaCE Program? Was it your first position with DLA?** I applied to the PaCE program when I was a GS-5 Property Disposal Tech at DLA Disposition Services Pearl Harbor so I could advance in the Agency in the General Schedule career fields. I have been with DLA Disposition Services since December 2020. **What was your position before coming to the PaCE Program, if any?** Before my career with DLA started, I was in the United States Marine Corps as a Landing Support Specialist where I worked in the logistics of moving and retrieving gear, troops, and vehicles pertinent to the missions at hand. **What have been your favorite parts of the PaCE Program?** I have enjoyed meeting new people and getting to know the agency through a Headquarters lens. **Do you have a favorite memory from your time in the program?** So far, a favorite memory would be shadowing the DLA Disposition Services Chief of Staff Peter Foreman and learning about the inner workings of Disposition Services through his eyes, as well as the impromptu history lesson on the US Military that we discussed. **If there was one thing that could’ve been different for you in the PaCE program, what would it be?** One thing that could be implemented into the program for the first year I think would have a couple weeks throughout the year to have the PaCERs go to the Training and Operations Simulation Center to get some warehousing experience ahead of their field site. It would be beneficial for them to get a better idea, especially for those new to the agency, on what the 1104 is responsible for. Or if possible, have them become fork-lift (Basic MHE) trained before they report to their field site. **What would you say is the most important quality to succeed in the PaCE program?** Be open to working with new people and new personalities and getting to know how to work as a team effectively. **Where are you assigned to next year? Where was it on your list (was it your top choice)?** I am assigned to the Barstow, California, field site. This was my top choice. **What your plans for your future in the agency? Do you hope to have a specific pathway/career field? Or a certain GS level?** Currently, I am only planning on becoming an efficient Property Disposal Specialist with experience in the Environmental career field as well. If I am able, I want to continue getting my degree in Psychology and see what opportunities arise from there. I am interested in going overseas for the agency, whether that means as an Expeditionary Civilian employee or a station opportunity in Europe.