Naval Education and Training Command (NETC) announced its 2018 Staff Civilians of the Year (COY) and Civilians of the Quarter (COQ), Feb. 19.

The NETC COQ/COY award recognizes and rewards staff civilian employees who have made significant contributions to the mission, operations, and productivity of the headquarters, or who have achieved significant levels of performance or service through job performance, civic duty, and/or self-development.

“It is an honor for me to recognize those who have made such significant contributions to the command,” said Rear Adm. Kyle Cozad, NETC commander. “Without their dedication and hard work, NETC would not be able to complete its mission ensuring we provide the very best in world class accession training to those who serve in the Navy the Nation needs."

Duane Gash, a Chicago native and team lead for NETC’s Training Delivery System Operations Branch, was selected as NETC’s 2018 Senior COY.

Gash led his team in the daily delivery of training throughout 2,500 connected, electronic classrooms at more than 60 locations for thousands of training courses and instructional content. Additionally, he oversaw the Windows 10 operating system conversion of 23,000 virtual and physical Training Delivery Services servers, workstations and assets that comprise the NETC training footprint.

“I personally recognize the Civilian of the Year award as one of my highest achievements throughout my career,” said Gash. “Receiving this award is a true tribute to my exceptional and hardworking peers within NETC N6 [information technology division] to support the Navy training mission.”

Dawn Coleman, a Ponchatoula, La. native and NETC program and management analyst, was recognized as NETC’s 2018 Junior COY.

Coleman ensured NETC’s directed governance for recruitment and training, as outlined in the Fiscal Year 2018 Enlisted Recruiting Goals, Policies and Training Guidance, was meticulously followed, which resulted in the successful accession planning, recruitment and training of more than 40,000 Sailors.  

“This has been a tremendous year for me,” said Coleman. “Since reporting aboard, I have benefitted from the tutelage and on-the-job-training provided by the team here in Millington [Tennessee] while learning the intricacies of supply chain operations. Our team is full of the best and brightest, and my selection is a direct reflection of their investment in my professional development.”

Karen Weeks, a Fairfield, Conn. native and NETC information technology specialist, was honored as NETC’s 2018 Senior COQ, fourth quarter.

Weeks led the release of significant functional improvements to the Navy Training Quota Management System (NTQMS). As a Central Design Agency team member, she also contributed to transforming the Enterprise Training Activity Resource Systems to a commercial off-the-shelf product.

“The recognition of this award was an unexpected honor,” said Weeks. “I appreciate that leadership took the time to recognize me. I will continue to do my best each and every day in supporting the NETC family and our Navy sailors.”

Jessenia Gibson, a Lynn, Mass. native and NETC supply technician, was recognized as NETC’s 2018 Junior COQ, fourth quarter.

Gibson reorganized two supply storerooms, which resulted in the ability to fulfill 52 supply requests that resulted in a $26,000 cost savings to the command. Additionally, as the single point of contact for the Defense Reutilization and Marketing Services, she oversaw the proper packaging and disposition of degraded and obsolete gear valued in excess of $100,000.

“First, I would like to thank those who nominated me and supported my nomination,” said Gibson. “I am honored to have been recognized for this award. This is just another example of the great support I have received from my team, and I appreciate all the organization has done to help me in my professional growth. May we all continue to work together so this can continue being a dynamic and creative place to work.”

The NETC COY were awarded the Department of the Navy (DoN) Civilian Service Commendation Medal (CSCM). The CSCM is the fourth highest honorary award in the DoN. The medal is awarded to DoN civilians who distinguish themselves for performing well above that which is usually expected of an individual commensurate with his or her grade.

The NETC COQ were awarded the DoN Civilian Service Achievement Medal (CSAM). The CSAM is the fifth highest honorary award in the DoN. The medal is awarded to DoN civilians who, while serving in a capacity with in the Navy or Marine Corps, are to be recognized for sustained performance or specific achievement of a superlative nature.

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