To celebrate Veterans Day, EM highlights former service members who have joined EM on their journey in civilian work-life.
Name and what you do at EM?
Chris Ammon, project management professional. I am currently the Waste Area Group 10 work package manager and the facility manager for environmental restoration at the Idaho Cleanup Project.
What branch did you serve in; when; where stationed? How many years of service?
I joined the Army Reserve in 2008 as a Combat Engineer (12B) and was assigned to the 744th Engineer Company in Ogden, Utah. We deployed to Afghanistan (Regional Command East) from 2010-2011 as a route clearance package. I transferred in 2012 to the 704th Engineer Company in Hot Springs, Arkansas and we deployed to Afghanistan (Regional Command West) from 2012-2013 again as a route clearance package. I transferred back to the 744th Engineer Company through 2016 for a total of eight years both active and reserve.
Most memorable event/moment during your service?
The most memorable moments happened many times, where I was able to witness first-hand the remarkable courage and fearlessness of those around me. Men willing to put their life on the line in the war on terror for both our country and the citizens of Afghanistan. I’ll never forget many of the incredible brothers in arms I had the honor to serve with.
How has your military service helped prepare you for the job you do in EM?
Like many others, the military taught me discipline, problem solving, and many leadership skills. I am able to perform efficiently in a changing environment and work well with others to accomplish project goals.
When did you begin working for EM and what got you interested in the cleanup mission?
I grew up in the Idaho area, and my love for the outdoors and education in geology and environmental science led me toward the environmental remediation (ER) industry. I gained the opportunity to Intern at the Idaho Cleanup Project and was hired on full-time with the ER group in 2017. I really enjoy working with the ER/CERCLA team and look forward to many more years to come.