Following his vast experience in defense and military organizations, Donny Watkins was looking for something new, challenging, and rewarding. He found all of this and more working at NNSA.
National Nuclear Security Administration
February 13, 2024
minute read time
How do you support NNSA?
In my current position, I am a program analyst for the Human Capital and Business Operations Division (HCBO) within Defense Programs. I support multiple NNSA/HCBO activities, from coordinating telework, to supporting new hire orientations, to answering customer requests for assistance on behalf the HCBO team. I provide solutions to customers and team members.
What is your personal background, and how has that shaped you and your approach to your career?
I have 20 years of experience as a support contractor. During my career, I have held numerous positions ranging from Department of the Army Program Executive Office, Army National Guard Bureau, Northrop Grumman, and the Navy Bureau of Medicine’s Vision Center of Excellence. During these career enhancement opportunities, I was focused on business requirements and process improvements for the organizations and implementing standardization policies and procedures.
What did you study in school and how did it impact you personally and professionally?
As a Strayer University graduate, I studied business administration with a concentration in management. I began my education at the Northern Virginia Community College. While employed with different companies, I was able to complete certifications in requirements writing, Microsoft Office, Joint Personnel Adjudication System (JPAS), and other specialized areas. This impacted me on a personal and professional level by broadening my vision and scope for these areas, which helped to expand my opportunities. By advancing my skills, I have the ability to see the big picture and understand multiple ways to achieve any goal.
What led you to a career in nuclear security?
With my diverse background coming from defense and military organizations, I was led into this field because I felt it would be challenging and rewarding to learn something new at NNSA.
What is the best part about your job?
The rewarding part of my current position is the ability to work with a culturally diverse non- biased work environment. In the beginning, it was a learning curve, as I started from scratch learning acronyms and definitions. Working in the HCBO organization provides me with the ability to learn, grow, and express ideas.
What is your proudest accomplishment while supporting NNSA?
My proudest accomplishment while working in NNSA is the ability to rapidly integrate processes and streamline HCBO objectives, platform policies, and documents with a variety of projects. The current leadership encourages me to utilize my strengths to provide quality to the customers. We provide numerous tools and training, all to help you become successful.
Tell us something interesting about yourself.
One thing I enjoy doing is spending time with my elders, playing bingo and making memories. I also attend many musical concerts and shows, such as the BET Urban Honors, Pattie Labelle, Jill Scott, and the Mariah Carey Christmas Tour.
What advice would you have for anyone interested in a career in nuclear security?
For anyone interested in a career in nuclear security, I recommend looking into opportunities to grow and better yourself, both personally and professionally. Never sell yourself short and settle for small things. Always work to become the best version of yourself and strive for greatness!
Who is someone that inspires you and why?
John Lewis inspires me for the courage he possessed throughout his career. I am also inspired by my family. I really enjoy family activities.
How do you plan to celebrate/commemorate Black History Month?
Currently, I plan to attend the Living the Dream…Singing the Dream concert on February 18, 2024, in Washington DC. This an annual choral tribute to the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with performances by the Washington Performing Arts Gospel Choirs. This concert recognizes Dr. King’s lifetime achievements and honors his legacy.