Tobyhanna Support Evolves to Boost Language Labs Efficiency It is no secret that the battlefield is changing at a rapid pace. And after more than seven decades of service as a leading readiness provider, Tobyhanna Army Depot continues to evolve to equip a ready, modern, and prepared generation of our nation’s warfighters with the tools they need to succeed. Tobyhanna Army Depot’s support for the Language Labs mission is an excellent example of how Tobyhanna’s agile workforce evolves with the technology at the disposal of our warfighters, to remain a critical part of the shared mission to deliver readiness to our nation’s warfighters as efficiently as possible. (U.S. Army Courtesy Asset) Despite the ever-evolving nature of combat, some things remain fundamental to mission success. One such example is crisp, clear communication. This is where Tobyhanna Army Depot’s over two decades of support to its Language Labs mission has helped to “aid in cooperation and break down language barriers between foreign military personnel and our own soldiers on the ground,” according to Logistics Management Specialist Michael McCain. The critical Language Labs mission provides allied foreign military forces with the tools they need to learn the English language. Per the Defense Language Institute English Learning Center’s website, “CECOM, through U.S. Army Security Assistance Command, is the provider of English Language Laboratory Systems and affiliated support equipment.” Over the course of Tobyhanna’s lengthy support of the mission, several iterations of systems have passed through the depot’s doors including Audio Active Language Labs and Training Multimedia Language Labs, which are now legacy systems. Depot personnel’s comprehensive support for these computer lab-style systems began on the production floor with kitting, testing, packaging, and shipping before stretching across the globe when depot employees would arrive sixty days later to complete the installation and provide training for the foreign nationals receiving the technology. The last of these legacy systems are set to be installed by Tobyhanna personnel shortly, and the current generation CC English Language Laboratory System will be arriving at the depot soon. Forward Maintenance & Modernization Project Management Branch Chief Dennis Karchin said the longevity of the mission is a testament to its importance. “This mission endures because it remains a value to provide English language proficiency to our allies. It’s still needed for communications and remains a benefit.” Karchin added that the depot is eager to showcase its versatility in support of the mission into the future. “As we shift to this new role, we’re still getting orders in, and they plan to continue,” said Karchin. Over two decades of comprehensive support to the Language Labs mission has made members of Team Tobyhanna like Digital Computer Mechanic Edward Voychuk subject matter experts and the right people to carry this mission into the future. Voychuk has been supporting the Language Labs mission for the better part of two decades and says this new technology ensures increased efficiency and effectiveness for both Tobyhanna and the foreign nationals utilizing it. “15 years ago, I was traveling a good six months out of the year doing these installs. It has gotten more efficient and evolved over the years.” Voychuk takes pride in the adaptability shown by himself and members of the team to ensure mission success. “I pride myself on the fact that despite any obstacles I’ve encountered, I’ve never failed to install a lab.” Voychuk’s supervisor, C4 Systems Support Branch Chief Ryan Stephenson, is relatively new to this role but has found that Tobyhanna remains as vital to the mission as ever and expects the depot to continue supporting the depot for years to come. “People may be surprised to hear that Language Labs is enduring, but there is still a need. Our specific expertise is relied upon, and the wealth of knowledge in our branch is something to be proud of,” said Stephenson. The new laptop-centric model is more flexible, allows more self-teaching opportunities than its predecessors, and eliminates the lengthy installation and training process. As Tobyhanna shifts the focus of its support for the mission to procurement and transportation, this new generation of language labs support will increase production capability and safety. Depot personnel will be procuring laptops and cabinets before loading Defense Language Institute software onto the laptops and packing and shipping the vital technology to allied nations. The less rigorous setup process facilitated by technological advancements, expertise of depot artisans, and elimination of unforeseen delays in installing the system means this critical readiness technology will reach its destination significantly and consistently faster. Tobyhanna Army Depot’s Language Labs mission is an excellent example of how Tobyhanna’s agile workforce evolves with the technology at the disposal of our warfighters, to remain a critical part of the shared mission to deliver readiness to our nation’s warfighters as efficiently as possible. Production Controller Edward Tomko said this technology is as needed as ever and Tobyhanna has proven itself to be a trusted partner. “In the big picture, Tobyhanna is saving lives through their work on this mission, and I’d say a lot of lives,” said Tomko. “Tobyhanna remains a vital part of the process because we have the technology and the expertise here. Our top-notch quality checks ensure that everything is secure and on time.”
Tobyhanna’s Technical Publications Team Essential Behind the Scenes When a new military system reaches the hands of the nation’s warfighters, one essential component often goes unnoticed: the manual that teaches them how to use, maintain, and troubleshoot it. At Tobyhanna Army Depot, a small but highly specialized team ensures those instructions are accurate, reliable, and ready for the battlefield. Tobyhanna’s Technical Publications Branch has been developing the technical manuals that accompany military systems, ranging from large tactical shelters and radar platforms to handheld radios and communications headsets, for multiple decades. Tobyhanna’s Technical Publications Branch has been developing the technical manuals that accompany military systems, ranging from large tactical shelters and radar platforms to handheld radios and communications headsets, for multiple decades. These manuals are not what the average consumer would expect to find in a new television set or cell phone, for example. These “tech manuals” are large, complex documents, often hundreds or even thousands of pages long that must follow strict standards set by the Department of War. “We’re taking complex engineering data and turning it into something a soldier can use in an austere environment,” said Technical Publications Branch Supervisor Peter Moore. Soldiers are often depending on these manuals in extreme weather, life-or-death situations where they may have limited background on the systems. Technical Writer-Editor Kevin Slater said everything is written with that context in mind. “Never assume the reader has time to guess. Assume they’re cold and holding a 20-pound wrench,” said Slater. The branch’s workforce is as diverse as its mission. Engineers, technicians, illustrators, drafters, and journalists all contribute to producing a complete manual. The work they perform goes far beyond sitting at a desk and typing away. It truly is part technical, part mechanical, and a part design role. Tobyhanna’s Technical Publications team estimated that approximately 95 percent of the branch’s workload comes from outside the depot. The team supports Army program offices nationwide, the Marine Corps, and occasionally the Navy and Air Force. When a contractor doesn’t have its own writers or when a program office needs an authoritative military manual, they often turn to Tobyhanna. Creating a manual is a deeply hands-on process. Writers and engineers frequently travel to units or manufacturers to examine equipment firsthand, take reference photos, perform operational steps, and work side-by-side with soldiers and subject-matter experts. Provisioners research every part used in a system, ensuring it’s available for the entire 20 to 30-year life cycle of a system, documented, and supported and then compile that data into detailed parts lists soldiers use to order replacements. “Our job is to make sure every piece of equipment can be operated and maintained safely for its entire life cycle,” said Technical Writer-Editor Jacob Crawford. Each manual concludes with a verification event in which a user follows the instructions step-by-step to ensure accuracy before the system can be fielded. The work of Tobyhanna’s Technical Publications Branch is complex, meticulous, and sometimes invisible to the public, but its impact is felt on the battlefield when soldiers desperately need it. “Every system needs a book,” said Configuration Management Specialist Carleton Henning. “And we make sure that book works for the soldier who needs it most.” This illustration depicts a power supply and labels each item a user will need to be able to identify when removing or installing it.
Team Tobyhanna’s Veteran Workforce Members Highlighted Team Tobyhanna recently joined a grateful nation in paying tribute to the past and present members of America’s Armed Forces on Veterans Day. Roughly 25% of Tobyhanna’s dynamic civilian workforce are veterans continuing their oath to our nation. These are three outstanding members of Tobyhanna’s robust veteran workforce. Tim Griffith served mostly aboard the USS Michigan, a guided missile submarine, from 2004 until 2009. At the time of his discharge, Griffith had reached the rank of E-5 Machinist’s Mate. (Photo Credit: Nicolo Manzo) Whether serving as a Machinist’s Mate aboard a submarine or as Lead Auditor in Tobyhanna Army Depot’s Internal Review and Audit Compliance Office, Tim Griffith likes to ensure a tight ship is being run. A graduate of Hanover Area High School, Griffith initially attended Temple University and Luzerne County Community College before answering his nation’s call to enlist in the U.S. Navy, thus beginning over two decades of commitment to the nation, and specifically the Department of War. Griffith served mostly aboard the USS Michigan, a guided missile submarine, from 2004 until 2009. At the time of his discharge, Griffith had reached the rank of E-5 Machinist’s Mate. Life aboard a Navy submarine comes with a unique set of opportunities and adjustments. Sailors work an 18-hour day (six hours of watch, six of maintenance, and six of sleep) and can go long periods without being exposed to sunlight or air outside the submarine. Griffith’s first deployment aboard the USS Alaska saw him underwater for 78 straight days. Griffith smiled as he recounted a valuable lesson he learned after that first deployment. “When you first leave the boat for an extended period of time after being exposed to clean air, all the particles in the atmosphere hit your eyes. It made me understand why everyone else left Bremerton, Washington in November with sunglasses on.” Griffith said that time underwater made him appreciate the sunlight that much more, even if it took him only an hour to learn another lesson on the importance of sunscreen in Guam. Griffith highlighted San Diego, Hawaii, and Japan as memorable stops during his time traversing the sea. Working as a Machinist’s Mate in the auxiliary division aboard the Michigan, Griffith stayed busy with several responsibilities vital to the ship’s operation. Griffith likened the role to a mechanical engineer and estimated that about 10% of the crew were ensuring 75% of the ship’s systems were running properly and efficiently, including air compressors, atmosphere control equipment, hydraulic oil systems, and more. Following his discharge, Griffith earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting from King’s College as well as a master’s in forensic accounting from Strayer University. Griffith credits the Navy for helping him achieve his academic and career goals. “Enlisting in the Navy gave me a path forward. It gave me discipline that I didn’t have at 18 or 20 years old and contributed to shaping me to how I am today.” During his last two years at King’s, Griffith began an internship at Defense Contract Audit Agency. He worked there until he joined Team Tobyhanna in May 2022. Griffith said the move to Tobyhanna was a family-focused one that allowed him to continue doing the numbers work he is passionate about while further serving his nation. “The move to Tobyhanna was about family,” said Griffith. “I was all about numbers at Defense Contract Audit Agency. This opportunity allowed me to continue working with numbers and continue my support of the Department of War.” Griffith’s current role at the depot sees him working on various audits to make sure programs are in compliance with applicable regulations, are effective and efficient, and are achieving their objectives. Although the specifics and setting of the work may be different, it is easy to draw comparisons between Griffith’s work aboard the Michigan and as a member of Team Tobyhanna. One constant in Griffith’s work is his drive and dedication to mission. “I took an oath, and I wanted to continue that in some form,” said Griffith. “I have been able to continue my commitment of supporting the war fighter by being a civilian employee of the Department of War.” His work, and the work of the entire Internal Review and Audit Compliance Office is crucial to Tobyhanna’s continued presence as a leading readiness provider at the best value to a ready, modern, and prepared force. Outside of work, Griffith lives in Shavertown with his spouse of eight years and seven-year-old son. He also has two stepdaughters, aged 17 and 19. Griffith said he enjoys playing basketball in his free time and says his son’s interests are driving his own, keeping him youthful in the process. “Everything he’s doing now, I love,” said Griffith. “His drive and interests are reigniting passions of my own.” Inspired by her father, a 20-year U.S. Air Force veteran, Megan Patane followed in his footsteps when she joined the U.S. Army Reserve in 2011. Over the next decade she served her country proudly, deploying twice to Guantanamo Bay before eventually finding her way to Tobyhanna Army Depot, the place she now calls home. (U.S. Army Courtesy Asset) For Megan Patane, service runs in her family. Inspired by her father, a 20-year U.S. Air Force veteran, Patane followed in his footsteps when she joined the U.S. Army Reserve in 2011. Over the next decade she served her country proudly, deploying twice to Guantanamo Bay before eventually finding her way to TYAD, the place she now calls home. “I joined for my dad,” said Patane. “Everyone in my family has kind of served in some way. It just felt natural to continue that tradition.” When her military service ended in May 2025, Patane faced a new challenge having to transition from soldier to civilian while balancing life as a mother. “It was definitely different,” said Patane. “In the military, you worry about yourself and your soldiers. Then suddenly you’re home, and you’re mom again. But my kids are great, and we made it work.” Her transition to civilian life led her right back to the mission of supporting America’s warfighters, except this time in a new uniform. Encouraged by a fellow service member, Patane accepted a position within Tobyhanna’s Installation Services directorate, continuing to serve her country in a different way. “It worked out great,” said Patane. “I love it here. The community, the people, the sense of purpose. It feels like a small town where everyone looks out for each other.” Today, Patane’s days begin early with guard mount before heading to her assigned post. Whether conducting vehicle inspections or patrolling the depot grounds, no two days are the same. That’s the part Patane said she enjoys most. “It’s different every day,” said Patane. “That’s what keeps it interesting.” When asked what Veterans Day means to her, Patane’s answer was concise and heartfelt. “It’s about remembering everyone who’s served and those who are still serving,” said Patane. Her advice for fellow veterans making the transition to civilian life is to take things at your own pace each and every day. “Take your time and adjust on your own terms,” said Patane. “Your family has kept things going while you were away, so ease yourself back in and take it one day at a time.” Patane’s dedication to service doesn’t end at work. Her husband, who also serves at Tobyhanna and remains active in the military, shares her commitment to the mission. Together they’re raising their family in Jim Thorpe, continuing the proud legacy of service that has defined both their lives. With decades of dedicated service as both a warfighter and Army civilian, Paul Ward stands as an invaluable asset to Team Tobyhanna and the Department of War. (Photo Credit: Justin Kucharski) With decades of dedicated service as both a warfighter and Army civilian, Paul Ward stands as an invaluable asset to Team Tobyhanna and the Department of War. The Northeastern Pennsylvania native enthusiastically enlisted in the U.S. Army in late Summer 2001, driven by a deep sense of pride, patriotism and a clear vision for the future. However, his plans changed dramatically just two weeks later when the America was attacked on September 11, 2001. Like many Americans, Ward acknowledges that the pivotal event profoundly changed him. “After September 11, everything was different in the Army. For example, my basic training was much harder, because we knew we had to prepare to potentially go to war and defend our nation,” he said. Over 21 years of active duty and reserve service, Ward had a diverse career, deploying to Southwest Asia and gaining expertise with a variety of military equipment from tactical vehicles to radios and everything in between. The experience prepared him well for a future career at Tobyhanna, working alongside the very civilians who helped keep him safe when in uniform. Today, Ward serves as the hazardous materials pharmacist for the C4ISR Refinishing Center in the Mission Execution Directorate, managing countless chemicals essential to organization’s mission. The position provides him with what he desires most: a sense of accomplishment. “I enjoy keeping the building going and equipping my coworkers with what the need to do their job,” he emphasized with a smile. In addition, Ward’s dedication to providing military readiness extends past the gates of the installation. He has supported nearly 50 mobile depot maintenance missions in every corner of the globe in places like Asia, the Middle East and countless locations within the continental U.S. The missions are critical, ensuring vital support is brought to directly to American heroes, but require Ward to leave home for long periods of time. He says the sacrifice is worth it. “I know how hard it is for our warfighters,” he said. “I take pride in being able to help play a role in keeping them prepared for the battlefield.” Although he has since retired from the U.S. Army Reserve, Ward remains an ardent supporter of past and present warfighters. He’s a frequent participant in Tobyhanna’s Veterans Support group, an endeavor led by the Employee Wellness Center’s Jaime Shields – a veteran herself. Monthly meetings of the group allow veterans in the depot workforce the opportunity to connect, share experiences and find community outside the uniform. Ward noted the importance of the group for him and other veterans. “The Veterans Support Group allows us to share experiences, to learn about resources that can help us, and most important, to motivate one another. I find it extremely beneficial, and I encourage others to attend.” Ward says he is most proud to use his experiences to help better connect Team Tobyhanna with the American heroes they serve. “Every day, I try to bridge the gap between the civilians and warfighters,” he said. “I can use my boots on ground experience to help support the warfighter.” In his limited free time, Ward is a passionate fisherman who loves to explore the scenic landscapes across Northeastern Pennsylvania. But, more than anything, he enjoys spending quality time with the people he loves – his family, friends and his rescue dog, Millie. Click here for more information.
Tobyhanna’s Stevens, McGlynn Selected as Employees of the Quarter Of the more than 3,000 patriotic Americans who comprise Tobyhanna Army Depot’s dynamic civilian workforce, Team Tobyhanna is proud to announce the selections of Sheet Metal Mechanic Leader Travis Stevens and Directorate Secretary Ellen McGlynn as Tobyhanna Army Depot’s Employees of the Quarter for the 4th quarter of FY25 in the senior and junior category, respectively. Team Tobyhanna is proud to announce the selections of Sheet Metal Mechanic Leader Travis Stevens (right) and Directorate Secretary Ellen McGlynn (left) as Tobyhanna Army Depot’s Employees of the Quarter for the 4th quarter of FY25 in the senior and junior category, respectively. (Photo Credit: Justin Kucharski) Both of these hard-working and skilled individuals have embraced the Army core values, going above and beyond to ensure Tobyhanna meets its mission of providing readiness to a ready, modern, and prepared generation of warfighters as efficiently and effectively as possible. Tobyhanna Army Depot prides itself on being a workplace where each member of its talented workforce can reach their full potentials and make a meaningful contribution to its mission. Stevens is proof positive of that. When it comes to a mission as critical as providing readiness to the warfighters defending our freedom, both cost and time savings are essential to delivering the best value to our heroes. Recently, an issue was discovered, through a capstone project Stevens was a part of, in which rusted conveyor rollers were staining assets and shipping containers. In order to uphold the lofty Tobyhanna standard, a solution was presented to correct the issue, which included masking, sandblasting, painting/spraying coating, baking, & unmasking. In a move emblematic of Stevens’ personal drive and commitment to mission, he successfully researched and prototyped a faster, more efficient, and more durable solution using heat shrink tubing. Stevens’ solution takes 15 minutes per roller as opposed to 1.5 hours per roller and reduces the repair cost from $158.54 to $37.94 per roller. Across 960 rollers, Stevens’ solution saves 1,200 hours and $115,771.20, ensuring Tobyhanna continues to deliver our nation’s warfighters the assets they need when they need them at the best quality and value. In nominating Stevens for the award, Sheet Metal Mechanic Supervisor Russell Wren, commended Stevens’ selfless efforts. “Travis’ actions were driven by a desire to improve operational efficiency and fiscal responsibility, which align with the larger mission of the cost center and its support of the warfighter,” said Wren. “His dedication and talent suggest a focus on the team’s success and mission accomplishment rather than personal gain. Proactively seeking and implementing a superior solution, even when a different approach had been suggested, shows a commitment to finding the best outcome for the overall project and the organization.” Wren said Stevens’ team-oriented and mission-focused outlook demonstrates the power for good each member of Team Tobyhanna possesses and elevates the entire cost center in the process. “Mr. Stevens’ commitment to pushing for a better way forward showcases the immense value of individual contributions and the impact that one person can have on the entire team’s success. By taking ownership of the problem and leading the implementation of the new, improved solution, Mr. Stevens effectively demonstrated how courage, skill, and resourcefulness can seize an opportunity to change things for the better. His proactive leadership sets a clear benchmark, motivating everyone to embrace accountability and strive for higher standards in their own work.” Stevens said he was honored and surprised to receive the recognition. He emphasized the team’s pride and commitment to delivering our warfighters only the best quality products, adding that the individual honor is a reflection of the collective excellent work being accomplished by the team. “I am honored to be selected as one of this quarter’s employees of the quarter. It was very unexpected to say the least, and I am very happy to have been selected to receive it. We see many different workloads pass through our cost center daily and we as a team try to do our absolute best to provide the finest product that we can,” said Stevens. “We are one of the last cost centers to see these materials before they are shipped to the field, so we do our utmost to make sure the end product is the absolute finest it can be. We are always trying to find new ways to innovate and improve our processes, and it’s a great feeling being able to continuously help team Tobyhanna deliver the highest quality product to the warfighter.” McGlynn’s recognition comes just three years after joining Team Tobyhanna, and her impact has already been felt across the organization. She is being honored for launching proactive training efforts for division secretaries that have strengthened administrative processes throughout the Mission Execution Directorate. By skillfully managing her leadership’s schedules and navigating frequent changes that stem from higher-level commitments, she helps maximize their time and keeps the mission moving forward. Mission Execution Director Nathan Thomas shared that McGlynn consistently goes above and beyond in her role as Directorate Secretary. Her daily responsibilities range from maintaining the calendars of the Director and Deputy Director to reviewing incoming correspondence with care and accuracy. Colleagues say her ability to anticipate needs before they arise has become a key part of the Directorate’s smooth operation. McGlynn’s attention to detail and her calm, clear communication style proved invaluable during the recent Mission Execution Directorate reorganization. Her positive attitude, adaptability, and steady support of her teammates reflect exceptional interpersonal skills and a strong sense of unity. She regularly sets aside her own priorities to support the broader needs of the Directorate and never hesitates to assist colleagues when help is needed. Reflecting on her time at Tobyhanna, McGlynn shared deep appreciation for the people who have shaped her experience so far. “It’s been such a privilege to work at Tobyhanna Army Depot and the Mission Execution Directorate, formerly the C4ISR Directorate, for the past three years,” said McGlynn. “I’m honored to be recognized among my peers and mentors as a strong member of the team and wish to extend my appreciation to all for the camaraderie and support both on a personal and professional level.” Click here for more information.
Tobyhanna Army Depot Celebrated Workers on National Tradesman Day Tobyhanna Army Depot wouldn’t be the world-class organization it is today without the skill, dedication, and precision of its tradespeople. On National Tradesman Day, Tobyhanna joins our nation in saluting those who utilize trade skills to make missions successful. Their craftsmanship is the backbone of every successful project, ensuring our warfighters have the tools they need to excel. Jonathan Jeffery’s six-year depot career has already been filled with many different opportunities. Today, he works as a composite worker with the equipage branch of TYAD’s integration support division. (Photo Credit: Justin Kucharski) Jonathan Jeffery’s six-year depot career has already been filled with many different opportunities. Upon joining Team Tobyhanna in 2019 as a material handler for the depot’s Family, Morale, Welfare, and Recreation divisions, he was responsible for unloading trucks, taking care of the warehouse and product that comes in, and making deliveries around the installation between the different cafeterias. He then joined the Defense Logistics Agency for roughly a year and a half where he helped process military parts, such as Army and Navy assets, and would get them ready to be shipped. Today, he works as a composite worker with the Equipage Branch of TYAD’s Integration Support Division. His primary day-to-day function sees him sanding down old or damaged fiberglass and carbon fiber military equipment and making it feel like new again. Jeffery’s prior experience working with sanding and restoration came mainly right from his garage at home. He described his work as being very gratifying. “I’ve had my own personal experience in my garage at home and I’ve had mentors to teach me along the way, so I took a shot, applied for the job, and thankfully I got picked,” said Jeffery. “I like restoring old stuff and making it new, no matter what it is. For example, last year I did an old table. It’s always really neat to see the equipment go from a state of disrepair to what it ends up looking like and it’s cool to know that I took part in it. I find it satisfying.” Jeffery said that he is thankful for his job at TYAD as it allows him the opportunity to maintain a healthy work-life balance, perform work he genuinely enjoys doing, and to give back to the military which his father spent 20 years serving as a member of the National Guard. “I think it’s a great job as far as what it offers. I’ve gotten to spend more time with my family than any other job I’ve had in the past,” said Jeffery. “Between that, the benefits, and supporting the mission, it is really great. Also, my father spent 20 years in the National Guard so it’s cool to give back in that way too.” Jeffery added that he’d love to see even more teamwork and positivity across the depot, saying that when people come together and support each other, it makes for a strong workplace. Jeffery’s message to tradespeople, whether they do it as a personal passion or as a profession, is to stay motivated and persistent. “I think that if people are passionate about something, they should pursue it, be persistent, and not give up. That’s what I did and what motivated me. I found something I really liked doing and just kept pushing myself,” said Jeffery. “Even if you get denied a few times, you don’t give up. You stay positive and push forward. I got to take something that was just a personal passion of mine and make it a career, which is great. I feel very blessed about that.” Ronnie Clark has been a member of Team Tobyhanna for nearly four years. Clark was hired to work in fabrication and is currently on a developmental assignment as a Composite Worker supporting the M139 Volcano mine dispensing system in Tobyhanna Army Depot’s Equipage Branch. (Photo Credit: Justin Kucharski) The importance of hard work and learning a trade was instilled in Ronnie Clark from a young age. With his father owning a construction company for over 25 years, Clark saw firsthand how valuable trade work was. When it came time for Clark to pursue a career of his own, he knew trade work was the right path for him. Born and raised in New Jersey, Clark obtained his HVAC license from Lincoln Technical Institute in Mahwah, New Jersey and has his barber license to boot. 13 years ago, Clark moved to Pennsylvania and has been a member of Team Tobyhanna for nearly four years. Clark was hired to work in fabrication and is currently on a developmental assignment as a Composite Worker supporting the M139 Volcano mine dispensing system in Tobyhanna Army Depot’s Equipage Branch. When the opportunity for a new position presented itself, Clark rose to the occasion and volunteered to move to this new role. As evidenced by his multiple licenses, Clark enjoys the opportunity to sharpen skills from a diverse background, learn new ones, and step up to ensure mission success whenever necessary. Clark’s agility, adaptability, diverse expertise, and commitment to mission success are indicative of Team Tobyhanna’s dynamic workforce across the installation. One of the many skillsets he has experience with is sanding – an essential component of his current position. This combined with his excellent track record made him the ideal person to ensure our nation’s warfighters have the assets they need when they need them. “I look forward to moving around and growing. Tobyhanna provides the opportunity to find a career path where you enjoy your work and are successful in it.” Clark has always taken great pride in his work and added that the nature of his work at the depot only provides extra motivation to his already lofty standards. “I most definitely take pride in my work,” said Clark. “I’m working for the warfighter. I have not served, but I understand the importance of making sure everything I touch is done to the best of my ability.” Clark said providing his expertise and hard work as a member of Team Tobyhanna is particularly rewarding because of the organization’s mission. “This is one of the jobs that make you feel like you’re supporting something bigger than yourself. It’s a fulfilling job.” When he’s not casting a broad net in offering his many skillsets to Team Tobyhanna, you can find Clark casting a line as a self-described diehard salt water and freshwater fisherman. Clark resides in Pittston with his wife and four children. Stephen Haduck of the Sheet Metal Fabrication & Assembly Branch says a chance experience led to a decades-long career as a cross-functional tradesman. Today, Haduck leverages the full scope of his education and work experience to support sheet metal fabrication needs for countless depot missions. (Photo Credit: Justin Kucharski) Stephen Haduck of the Sheet Metal Fabrication & Assembly Branch says a chance experience led to a decades-long career as a cross-functional tradesman. “I went on a school field trip and saw someone welding,” he said. “It immediately attracted me and looked like an exciting thing to do. That field trip paved the way for my future.” Shortly after, he enrolled in a vocational-technical school and started working at a welding shop before he even graduated high school. These practical experiences sparked Haduck’s interest in pursuing welding as a long-term career. After earning an associate’s degree from the Pennsylvania College of Technology, he began a full-time job specializing in fabrication as well as TIG welding both stainless steel and aluminum. Haduck worked in the private sector for 16 years, specializing in a variety of metal-related disciplines from welding to sheet metal forming and beyond. He also gained additional expertise through freelance opportunities. In 2018, he grew dissatisfied with his job and came to a depot job fair looking for a better opportunity. He then started his career with Team Tobyhanna as a sheet metal mechanic in the Mission Execution Directorate – and he’s never looked back. “Taking the job here at Tobyhanna was a transformative experience,” he said. “It is a great place to work, I no longer have significant stress, and the conditions are pristine,” adding that the depot’s mission supporting warfighter readiness is a bonus. “It is easy to come to work when you know your purpose. Working to better our country gives my job meaning.” Today, Haduck leverages the full scope of his education and work experience to support sheet metal fabrication needs for countless depot missions. “My degree gave me a foundation, but my experience over the years is what has made me successful,” citing a complex project mounting a hydraulic winch that he says taught him a lot about his craft. Another benefit of working at Tobyhanna is the opportunity to further expand his skillset, according to Haduck. “I have learned so much from my colleagues and from working with the new technology here at the depot,” he said. “I am very content.” A resident of Pittston, Haduck enjoys using his metalworking talents outside of the regular workday. Beyond all things metal, he loves exploring the great outdoors with his wife and daughter – and he never runs out of recommendations for a great Northeastern Pennsylvania pizza spot.
Tobyhanna Delivers Critical Communication Support for Army Aviators When warfighters take to the skies in helicopters, their ability to share information instantly can mean the difference between mission success and failure. At the heart of that capability is the Improved Data Modem (IDM)-401 and Tobyhanna Army Depot (TYAD) is now ensuring this critical system remains ready for the fight. When warfighters take to the skies in helicopters, their ability to share information instantly can mean the difference between mission success and failure. At the heart of that capability is the Improved Data Modem (IDM)-401. The IDM-401 connects mission computers, radios, and the tactical internet, allowing helicopters to send voice and data at the same time. It also passes along targeting information and situational awareness to commanders and other aircraft, helping warfighters in the air and on the ground stay connected, informed, and safe. Today, more than 3,200 IDM-401s are in service across every modern Army helicopter. Tobyhanna’s involvement with the IDM-401 began with test-and-inspect work, but the mission quickly expanded. In less than a year, the depot has built up the ability to perform full overhauls on the device. Today, technicians can complete every step of the sustainment process including loading and verifying software, performing vibration and thermal testing, and conducting hardware qualification tests. Four advanced test stations and environmental stress screening chambers ensure each unit can handle tough conditions before being returned to the field. This growth didn’t happen overnight. It has taken teamwork, innovation, and close partnership across the Army enterprise. Experts from Tobyhanna’s Mission Execution Directorate, Strategic Initiatives Directorate, and Software, Simulation, and Systems Engineering and Integration (S3I) worked side by side with the Project Management Office for Aviation Mission Systems and Architecture (PM AMSA) to validate test equipment and processes. The result is a streamlined production line capable of handling the Army’s needs for years to come. In August 2025, leaders from PM AMSA visited Tobyhanna to walk through the new repair process. They praised the depot’s setup and progress, even presenting coins to three technicians for their outstanding work. Lt. Col. James D. Brooks of U.S. Army PEO Aviation praised Tobyhanna’s rapid integration of the workload “Tobyhanna assumed the sustainment of the IDM-401 less than six months ago. In short order, Tobyhanna demonstrated their ability to fully support and sustain the IDM-401, ensuring a steady supply chain and maintaining capabilities in the hands of the warfighters,” said Lt. Col. Brooks. When the IDM-401 program arrived at TYAD in March 2024, PM AMSA’s Brett Beatty lauded the depot’s support of the important program. “Tobyhanna is providing outstanding support for the IDM-401. It is a pleasure to work with the professional team here,” said Beatty. The IDM-401 serves as the crucial interface between aircraft mission computers, radios, and ground networks. As the predecessor to the Aviation Mission Computer Server, the IDM has laid the foundation for the Army’s next generation of aviation mission systems. With sustainment expected through at least 2040, the IDM-401 mission will remain an important part of Tobyhanna’s portfolio for years. More importantly, it represents the depot’s ongoing commitment to the warfighter. Through teamwork, innovation, and dedication, TYAD is keeping America’s warfighters connected today, tomorrow, and into the future. Katlin Edmunds of TYAD’s Strategic Initiatives Directorate highlighted the depot’s role in supporting evolving Army Aviation needs, emphasizing the commitment to readiness depot artisans exhibit on a daily basis. “TYAD is proud to enhance sustainment operations for Project Manager Aviation Mission Systems and Architecture (PM AMSA) and PEO Aviation as Army Aviation platforms and systems continue to evolve,” said Edmunds. “We are committed to rapidly establishing the necessary capabilities for our soldiers to remain operationally ready.” “Tobyhanna assumed the sustainment of the IDM-401 less than six months ago. In short order, Tobyhanna demonstrated their ability to fully support and sustain the IDM-401, ensuring a steady supply chain and maintaining capabilities in the hands of the warfighters,” said Lt. Col. Brooks of U.S. Army PEO Aviation.
Tobyhanna Celebrates Growth for National Intern Day Tobyhanna Army Depot (TYAD) observed National Intern Day on Jul. 31 by shining a spotlight on depot employees who joined Team Tobyhanna through internship programs. Nikki Collins joined Team Tobyhanna as part of the Pathways Program in the Fall of 2017 as a Budget Analyst in the Resource Management Directorate. She graduated from Misericordia University in May 2018 with bachelor’s degree in business administration and a minor in accounting. Additionally, she earned her Master of Business Administration degree from West Chester University in 2021. At the beginning of her depot career Collins served in a part-time capacity, working up to three days a week while continuing to attend classes at Misericordia. Upon graduating, she was offered full-time employment and was able to seamlessly pick up where she left off. Collins said that while she was in college, she was initially unaware of the opportunities that existed at TYAD. “Considering the mission, people don’t often realize that administrative positions are needed on military installations. While in college, I thought it was primarily military personnel working on post. Once I realized that they offer internships to civilians in college, that was when I started to do the research into what the mission was here,” said Collins. “That’s when I thought ‘Oh wow, that has got to be a really great place to work.’ Just coming on-post for the interview amazed me at how expansive the depot was. It was unlike any other workplace I’ve seen. Collins said that her job offers her a bit of everything, ensuring that each workday is unique and never gets stale. “The one part that I really love about my job is that I have some routine functions, which helps to build a rapport working with the same people and I’m able to build some confidence in the work that I’m repeatedly doing, but now I’ve also been pulled on to some special teams and to work on new projects,” said Collins. “That helps keeps things fresh.” As a member of the Program Budget and Execution Division, Collins said the main roles of the group she supports is to monitor key performance indicators, like revenue, expenses, and direct labor hours, and to calculate cost center rates. Recently, the team has taken on some extra roles, such as calculating machine costing rates. They also support TYAD’s Command Group by creating presentations containing statistical analysis. Aside from a stint as Command Intern in 2019, she has served as a member of the budget team for the entirety of her tenure. With the mission of TYAD being so vast and varied, those completely new to the installation often go through an adjustment period before they understand the breadth of the operations. Collins said her time as an intern was crucial to helping her get up to speed when she was offered full-time employment. “For those first six or seven months as an intern, I was getting acclimated to who the point people are for certain projects and getting familiar with some of the work. I think it took some of the pressure off when I started full time employment,” said Collins. “When you take classes, a lot of it is geared toward the private sector, because that’s most businesses out there. Coming here early gave me some valuable hands-on experience. My teammates also showed me a variety of things which helped me get a good idea of what projects interested me in relation to what goes on here.” Although Collins’ time as an intern has long passed, she said she is still surprised to learn about some of the things that happen on the depot. “Having been here for eight years this fall, it still amazes me learning what everybody does here. The longer you’re here and the more projects that you get involved in or the more articles you read, it’s incredible to learn what goes on here,” said Collins. “Tobyhanna’s size and how far reaching all its activities are just very impressive.” Collins said she is grateful for her career at Tobyhanna as it has offered her healthy, stable, and meaningful employment in the area she calls home. “It was always my plan to stay in Northeastern Pennsylvania, but I just didn’t know if that was going to be possible. My sisters had to relocate to Philadelphia, so I thought maybe I’d have to move into a bigger city, but it was just amazing to be able to stay local,” said Collins. “Tobyhanna did shape my future. I’ve been able to buy a home here so it’s great to stay close to the family, and I have had the opportunity to grow here professionally. There are so many opportunities if you go out and seek them.” Having had family members who have served in the military, Collins said her favorite part about coming to work every day is supporting a mission she takes pride in. “No matter where you go on the depot, you know that we are all collectively working towards the same mission of helping our warfighters get the repairs, equipment, and everything else that they need on time. That sense of pride, I don’t know that I would find that working somewhere else. I love that,” said Collins. “My team is also just the best. We work so incredibly well together. They care about me on a personal and professional level, and they make me want to come in and do well every day. We bounce ideas off each other and are just a well-oiled machine that works so well together.” In her free time, Collins said she loves to be outside, work on her house, walk her dog, live an active lifestyle, and spend time with her family. What started as a cooperative internship became the foundation for a career built on purpose and growth for UAS Program Manager Chris Volch. The Student Temporary Experience Program, also called STEP, provided Volch the opportunity for on-the-job training while pursuing an associate’s degree in electronics from Luzerne County Community College. The internship turned into full-time employment in 2004, with Volch supporting Tobyhanna’s avionics missions as an electronics worker. For Volch, taking on a full-time role at the depot was more than just “getting a job” – it was the culmination of hard work. The position offered the chance to make an impact on his country, provided direct paths for both personal and professional transformation, and allowed him to build a meaningful life in the community. Several years of working in the avionics production area gave Volch the experience and insight to pivot into a position as a management analyst in the Production Management Directorate. He says gaining institutional knowledge was key to success in this subsequent role. “The advantage of coming up from the production area was that I already had a network and experience with the hands-on work. From that effort, I was able to use my experience to effectively support a different side of our mission.” Learning from logisticians and other production support personnel further enhanced Volch’s skill set, leading him to his longest-held position as a logistics management specialist in the Strategic Initiatives Directorate. In this role, Volch transitions workload through the depot activation and pre-production planning processes. Over the years, he has successfully onboarded dozens of programs – most recently, the maintenance, repair, and overhaul capability for the critical MQ-9 Reaper unmanned aircraft system. Passionate about personal evolution, Volch has pursued countless training courses and degree programs to grow his abilities. Since graduating from college, he’s gone on to complete a bachelor’s degree in project management, and will soon finish his master of business administration degree. He also earned his Project Management Professional certification, along with earning valuable leadership experience in the Practical Introduction to Supervising Employees program. Although he hasn’t served in uniform, a voluntary civilian deployment to Southwest Asia instilled Volch with a greater understanding of warfighter readiness needs – a skill critical to his position. “I have experienced the ‘voice of the customer,’ which drives me to be a good steward of our taxpayer dollars and the equipment of our warfighters,” he said. “My broad experience helps me focus on comprehensive program success.” Volch says he owes a lot to his early mentors, especially engineer Ken Stuccio—who had a knack for pushing people to level up. “Ken was big on finishing what you start, and following through to completion,” Volch said. “He made sure I stayed motivated, and that mindset stuck with me. Ken had a unique way of communicating how well you were performing through his ‘creative’ rating system, and let’s just say it wasn’t great if you were a ‘1”. Volch’s colleagues can attest to the impact of Stuccio’s teachings, noting that he often uses the same philosophy when mentoring and coaching others. For Volch, growth is more than just a goal – it’s a way to better serve the Tobyhanna mission and, more importantly, his family. The lessons he has learned in a 20+ year career have shaped his identity and made him a better husband to Holly and father to Jack. In his limited spare time, he notes that he strives to live life to the fullest. “I love dragging my wife up mountains in the Adirondacks she swore she’d never climb—she pretends to hate it, but I know she secretly loves the view (and maybe the snacks). Playing hide and seek with my son Jack is basically Olympic-level at this point—he’s got hiding skills, but he can’t stop laughing so I find him every time. I’m all about bombing down trails on my mountain bike, paddling the Susquehanna like I’m on some epic expedition, and heading into the woods with my dad and uncles for some good ol’ hunting (and storytelling, of course),” he effused. Like many others, electronics worker Joshua Littlejohn sought federal employment for more than “just a job.” The 2024 Johnson College graduate was looking for a dynamic career, and the Peckville native says he’s on the right track with Team Tobyhanna. A lifelong passion for hands-on work propelled Littlejohn along a winding path, albeit one shaped by curiosity. His high school vocational-technical experiences provided mechanical and automotive repair knowledge, while early coursework at Johnson taught the fundamentals of diesel mechanics and heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems. Littlejohn also gained technical experience working as a cable installer and interning for the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation. After earning an associate’s degree in computer information technology, Littlejohn was equipped with a unique set of skills that have proven beneficial in his current role supporting avionics missions at Tobyhanna Army Depot. “Having experience working with different hardware systems has been helpful when it comes to working on circuit card assemblies and other pars of our workload,” he noted, adding that he values the opportunity to support Tobyhanna’s critical C5ISR readiness missions. “I appreciate being part of something like Tobyhanna – it allows me to learn about different weapons systems, pursue opportunities, and support our warfighters.” Community is vitally important to Littlejohn, who serves as a volunteer firefighter for the Blakely Hose Company alongside several family members. His penchant for giving back to others also earned him a position as an adjunct instructor at his alma mater, where he’ll help train the next generation of Johnson College students. He says the opportunity is exciting. “I enjoy helping others reach their goals and grow. Seeing others evolve is a great feeling.” Littlejohn’s other passion in life is music. A drummer since childhood, he often plays alongside his father, George, and attends as many concerts as he can with his girlfriend. His musical tastes run from The Beatles to the Moody Blues to Metallica and beyond. He says discovering new music is more than just a hobby for him – it’s an adventure. Reflecting upon his time as an intern, Littlejohn noted that it was the people who shaped the experience. “I have had a lot of mentors here at the depot, really, too many to mention. But I have to give a big thank you to Kevin Berry, Frank Gervasi, Mike Gerrity, Joe Weisgable and Mark Staples for helping me along the way,” he emphasized.
Tobyhanna Veterans Hart and Shields Continue to Serve Patrick Hart and Jaime Shields are continuing to serve their nation, the warfighters who protect it, and their fellow veterans as dedicated members of Tobyhanna’s civilian workforce. These two patriotic Americans join several hundred veterans who serve among the ranks of Team Tobyhanna. Each July 25, National Hire a Veteran Day is observed as a call to action for employers to recruit and hire veterans. From the heart of the country to the heart of a ship, Patrick Hart served his nation in the Navy for 20 years. Hart’s fascination with the sea and the ships that traverse it began far away from the sea in the middle of the country. Hart spent 10 years of his childhood and adolescence in Arkansas and while there had an eye-opening experience. “When I was in the 8th grade, a group of Navy boats – amphibious boats and tugboats – came up the Arkansas River. I got to go out on them and thought one day I want to drive these things,” said Hart. Combine that passion for seafaring with a history of service that includes his grandfather serving in World War I; his father serving in World War II; his uncle serving in Korea; his brother serving in Vietnam; and his sister serving in the Gulf War, Hart found himself sailing the seas as a proud member of the U.S. Navy just five years later. Over the course of a 20-year Navy career that stretched from 1985-2005, Hart reached the rank of E-6, or Petty Officer First Class. Hart spent much of his 20 year career at sea, including 13 years as “the heart of every ship” – the boatswain’s mate and five years with the Navy’s construction force, the Seabees. Hart’s travels took the boy from Arkansas who wanted to see the world to just about every corner of it. His voyages included South America, the western Pacific, the Mediterranean, the north Atlantic, the Caribbean, Costa Rica, and Panama. Of all these spots, Hart said Palma, Spain, was his favorite for the nice beaches and friendly people. Hart continued his service to our nation when he joined the ranks of Team Tobyhanna in February of 2007 as part of a mass hiring event for the creation of a second shift. Hart worked as a painter until recently transitioning to a role that puts him in charge of all hazardous materials inside the shop and on the road. This critical role ensures the shop has the supplies it needs to provide the finest quality products to our nation’s warfighters at peak efficiency. Hart said his depot career is an extension of his service. “Veterans’ creed doesn’t end just because we retire, our oath of office doesn’t end just because we retire. This is a way to give back,” said Hart. When not at work, Hart enjoys spending time with his wife of 24 years, hiking, hunting, reading military stories and history, and aiding veterans who are in recovery from drugs and alcohol. Fresh out of high school, Shields began serving our nation in June 2001 by providing Information Management support to the United States Air Force. Serving for a total of eight years, she spent the majority of her time on active-duty orders at the Hickam Air Force Base in Hawaii. She spent the latter part of her military career as a member of the National Guard, which ran concurrent to her joining of Team Tobyhanna in 2007 as a Branch Secretary. Shields said she was drawn to the military primarily due to the opportunities it offered her. “There was nobody that I knew of connected to the military. It was more so the opportunities that the military would provide that were appealing. I didn’t really have any plans to go to college, and it got to where I am today,” said Shields. “I joined before my senior year of high school, so I kind of made that decision early. I just thought that was the best plan. It worked out because I was living in Hawaii!” Shields’ military career ended in 2009 after serving for eight years. She said that the transition from serving in an active-duty capacity to a civilian capacity was eased by both being a Tobyhanna, PA native and following the Army Core Values. “The discipline, the culture, and just the military tradition, it stays with you,” said Shields. “Having respect for the chain of command and having an understanding of how you work within the mission helps a lot.” Hart agreed with Shields, and said veterans bring invaluable skill sets and work ethic to Team Tobyhanna and beyond. “Anywhere in the community, a veteran would be good. We’re disciplined and we’re dedicated,” said Hart. “Veterans at Tobyhanna know what it’s like to be on the other end of receiving the gear, so we want to make sure our comrades get the best equipment.” Shields emphasized the importance of hiring veterans and how granting them positions at government installations like TYAD eases the transition into civilian life. “The most important thing about hiring veterans is the transition from active-duty or reserve over to a government job like Tobyhanna. Hiring veterans does a lot in making them feel wanted and still offers them the ability to support the warfighter,” said Shields. “It keeps them around military terms, traditions, and ceremonies which is especially important to make somebody feel like they belong. Being able to continue those values on to another place, I think, is significant.” Following her time as a Branch Secretary, Shields served for 10 years as a Command Secretary with TYAD’s Command Group. It was while working there that she was encouraged by her leadership to explore new opportunities and to take some college courses to discover her passion. After some trial and error, Shields realized that she wanted to make a career out of helping people. She transitioned to a role withing TYAD’s Employee Wellness Center in 2020 and further made that desire a reality when she graduated from Misericordia University with a 4.0 GPA in 2023 with a bachelor’s degree in social work. Looking to deeper her education, she then attended Marywood University and earned a master’s degree just one year later in 2024. In addition to her responsibilities as a Community Support Advocate, Shields also runs the installation’s Veteran Support Group. Here, veterans can connect, share experiences, stories, and values in a place where everybody comes together in a place feeling like they belong and are supported. “When someone is transitioning out of active-duty or long-term service, the Veterans Support Group can serve as a place of belonging, connection, and support. Here, veterans can talk to other people who have experienced similar things as them such as boot camp or deployment into a combat zone,” said Shields. “It makes a difference when they’re together with a group of people who share those life experiences, especially when it comes to combat or deployments, because there’s a different understanding of what it’s like to have a family and to have to leave that family behind.” Hart participates in the group and lauded both Shields and the tremendous resource she facilitates, highlighting the valuable information about community veterans organizations. “The peer-to-peer group that Jaime runs is an awesome, awesome group. I get to hear about different stories and events. I love supporting VFWs and American Legions in what they’re doing, and this is a way to find out what they’re doing.” Shields says she is consistently impressed by the strong sense of community the group fosters and how quickly everyone comes together to have each other’s backs. “The biggest impact that I’ve seen is when somebody in the group is struggling with something, whether it’s related to being a veteran or related to their personal life, they receive instant support,” said Shields. “Someone may walk into the group feeling upset and in need some help and everybody just comes together to surround the individual and give them support. Whether they share resources, connections that they have, or just offer empathy in supporting somebody through a hard time.” To veterans who are on the fence about attending the group sessions, Shields said her message is to just give it a try, adding that just because you come once it doesn’t mean you need to come again. ‘The biggest thing that I would say is to just come once. If you come once, it doesn’t mean that you must come all the time. If you have any questions about what we do, what we talk about, or what it’s like feel free to call me, because I’d rather you come and see if you like it,” said Shields. “It’s not a dramatic therapeutic group that you would see on television. We don’t sit in a circle and talk about our feelings all the time. Sometimes we may do that if somebody’s going through something or if there’s a topic we need to discuss, but really, it’s just a place for veterans to come and connect with each other.”
Tobyhanna Partners with General Atomics on Unmanned Aircraft System Photo credit: Justin Kucharski Tobyhanna Army Depot, in collaboration with General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), proudly marked the successful launch of a critical unmanned aircraft system (UAS) maintenance, repair, and overhaul capability that strengthens support for a force that’s agile, modernized, and mission-ready. Tobyhanna Army Depot hosted GA-ASI project leadership for a ribbon cutting on July 29 to formally commemorate the depot’s full test, diagnose, repair and return capability for the MQ-9 Reaper Ground Control Station’s Linux processors, file server, and control consoles. This public-private partnership, or P3, directly aligns with Army and Department of Defense transformation initiatives seeking to facilitate a leaner and more agile Army through development of modernized UAS capabilities, as highlighted in the memo titled “Unleashing U.S. Military Drone Dominance.” In it, U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth described drones as “the biggest battlefield innovation in a generation.” The MQ-9 Reaper is a medium-large UAS supporting a payload of intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and munitions equipment; this asset provides both intelligence and combat power to our warfighters on the battlefield of the future. After being named the Depot Source of Repair for Shelters; Ground Electronics; Command; Control; Communications and Intelligence for Reaper Ground Control Systems in 2013, Tobyhanna’s work to develop this capability in coordination with GA-ASI began nearly a decade ago. Over the course of the partnership, Tobyhanna and GA-ASI collaborated to develop technical manuals, training aides, specialized test equipment, and test program sets to facilitate efficient repair processes at Tobyhanna. Joining an already vast portfolio of UAS capabilities, the success of this partnership is the latest in a long series of astute, forward-focused investments by depot leadership to proactively supplement the depot’s impressive capabilities, adapt to meet the needs of our nation’s warfighters, and reaffirm Tobyhanna’s position as a leading readiness provider for an evolving force and battlefield. During remarks at the ribbon cutting ceremony attended by depot leadership and General Atomics representatives, Depot Commander Col. Benjamin L. Kilgore said endeavors like this one strengthen Tobyhanna’s position as a leading readiness provider across the joint force. “I see Tobyhanna as a purple readiness provider, meaning we serve all branches of America’s armed forces. Just as America’s armed forces collectively serve to defend our nation, the success of this partnership is a testament to the collective effort of everyone in involved in this project,” said Kilgore. He continued to say that Tobyhanna, bolstered by its dynamic civilian workforce, is ready to deliver excellent and efficient readiness to the next generation of warfighters. “Today’s battlefield is rapidly transforming, yet Team Tobyhanna consistently raises the bar to deliver high-quality results. Your dedication and adaptability prove that Tobyhanna Army Depot can continue to thrive in a dynamic and challenging environment.” This P3 is the latest of hundreds of partnerships fostered by the P3 program since its inception in 1994. Christopher Volch, UAS Project Manager, emphasized that the success of the effort was driven by the dedication and contributions of the team members involved from start to finish. “At every step, our people have been our greatest strength. In long-term efforts like this, not everything will always go according to plan; however, each team member met the challenges with remarkable resilience. The team’s dedication and collaborative approach reflect the core values of our organization and set the tone for Tobyhanna’s promising future supporting UAS products,” said Volch. David King, General Atomics Senior Program Manager, U.S. Air Force Contractor Logistic Support, said it is rewarding to see years of hard work, determination, and collaboration between the two organizations pay off with a successful activation that will benefit warfighters today and tomorrow. “People may not realize all it takes to stand something like this up,” said King. “There were challenges and lessons learned along the way, but what stands out to me is the great partnership fostered between Tobyhanna Army Depot and GA-ASI. We have the resources, the talent, and the capabilities. I am very proud of all involved.”
Tobyhanna Army Depot Achieves Corrosion Control Accreditation Painter Ashley Lancia (far right), along with Thomas Petroski, meet with Kemper during the audit. (Photo Credit: Justin Kucharski) Tobyhanna Army Depot is the first government organization to earn accreditation through the Association for Material Protection and Performance (AMPP), affirming the organization’s position as the leading provider of readiness for the U.S. Armed Forces. After a comprehensive audit from Jul. 9-10, Tobyhanna obtained AMPP’s QP1 accreditation, which certifies excellence in steel work and field coating applications; the QP3 accreditation, which certifies excellence in shop coating applications; and the AS3-ITO accreditation, which certifies excellence in training courses and facilities. Only 500 companies worldwide maintain AMPP certifications. Kris Kemper and Michael Damiano from AMPP conducted the audit on their first visit to Tobyhanna. The duo praised Tobyhanna’s facilities and workforce. “I have been to many other military bases and Tobyhanna is the best,” said Kemper. “From your exceptional processes to the cleanliness of the facility, Tobyhanna’s workforce truly cares about their mission – and it shows.” Kemper serves as a technical services consultant for AMPP, while Damiano serves as a program director. Tobyhanna pursued AMPP accreditation to enhance its abilities to protect military weapons systems from deterioration, according to Fabrication & Component Refinishing Division Chief Thomas Petroski. “The DOD spends countless dollars every year combating corrosion, something that compromises the safety and readiness of our warfighters. By gaining this accreditation, Tobyhanna is meeting a critical need for our military,” he said. During the audit, AMPP officials identified several best practices across the installation – such as the innovative and intentional employee training programs, specifically within the corrosion control and refinishing realms. Since 2008, Tobyhanna has used the virtual reality Spray Technique Analysis and Research for Defense (STAR4D) system to provide hands-on, immersive training for refinishing artisans. The depot also provides dozens of other trainings related to surface preparation and coating application from both in-house instructors and industry experts. Resource Management Directorate officials say Tobyhanna spends upwards of $6M per year on workforce development. Damiano and Kemper applauded Tobyhanna’s holistic approach to workforce development. “Tobyhanna’s training programs are phenomenal and are well above what is available in private industry,” they said. Depot leaders attribute the accomplishments to the dedication of the depot workforce. “The AMPP accreditations are a reflection of the expertise of our workforce and their passion for providing American warriors with the very best support,” said Depot Commander Col. Benjamin L. Kilgore. “Becoming the first in the DOD to achieve this goal didn’t happen by accident – and this success proves that no one does it better than Team Tobyhanna.” Christopher Musso, Tobyhanna’s Director of Quality, agreed. “This achievement is a testament to our unwavering commitment to excellence and the unparalleled dedication of every member of Team Tobyhanna. To be the first government organization to earn this level of recognition speaks volumes about our proactive approach to protecting and sustaining military assets and, ultimately, safeguarding our warfighters.” AMPP’s Kris Kemper (right) reviews documentation with Training Specialist Carmelo Rivera. Tobyhanna’s comprehensive training programs were lauded by AMPP during the accreditation audit. (Photo Credit: Justin Kucharski) Michael Damiano (right) from AMPP reviews visual management boards in Tobyhanna’s mission work areas. Thomas Petroski and Quality Assurance Specialist William Stevens (left) were also present. (Photo Credit: Justin Kucharski)
