Employee Spotlight: Meet Ben C. Long
Our employee spotlight shines a light on one employee at a time. We value diversity and inclusion and welcome diverse thinking. It takes a village — through collaboration, living safely and driving innovation we realize our goals and help our clients achieve mission success. Our mantra is people first, mission always. And during Black History Month, we focus on some of our African American employees. Today’s Q&A is with Ben C. Long, deputy program manager.
How did you come to join Amentum?
I was brought over from an existing contract that Amentum assumed in January 2019.
What is your professional and personal background?
I am a retired criminal investigator/ special agent from the federal government serving 25 years. I now work as a deputy program manager here at Amentum.
How did your military service prepare you for a successful career at Amentum?
I served in the United States Marine Corps for 4 years as a military policeman. The discipline and esprit de corps from the USMC prepared me for my career in security.
Describe the work you do and how you think it makes a positive impact.
I oversee 700+ access control specialists at five locations nationwide.
What do you enjoy about working for Amentum?
Amentum is one of the most professionally ran companies I have ever worked for.
What are you passionate about?
Growing the careers of young employees!
What’s your career advice?
Enjoy what you do, and pass that on to others.
What does safety mean to you, or do you have a favorite safety tip?
Coming from a law enforcement career, I insist that my employees don’t take anything for granted, ensure they are mindful of safety every day.
What’s the best invention in the world and why?
The airplane, if safely ran, connects the world!
What does Black History Month Mean to You?
With the current climate in this country, Black History Month is a critical time for people of color to be celebrated for their exceptional accomplishments through this country’s history. Small examples, like the integration of the U.S. Marine Corps at Mumford Point, N.C. in 1942 to Ms. Mae Jemison becoming the first woman of color to travel in space, set the tone for all Americans to celebrate.
I hope this year’s Black History Month brings us all closer together, simply because of the last year we as a country had to endure!