At Amentum, we celebrate our people, our cultures, and we recognize the value of diversity and inclusion. In August, we’ll focus on our Next Gen Employee Resource Network while shining a light on one employee at a time. The NextGen ERN is a network where young professionals, and those young at heart, can come together to deepen Amentum’s culture of diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging. Developing a sense of community, cultivating professional and personal growth opportunities, and fostering an environment of generational knowledge sharing. Today’s Q&A is with Nicole Southard, Deputy Manager, USAID – Humanitarian Assistance Support Contract.
How did you come to join Amentum?
I joined when Amentum acquired PAE/MacFadden.
What are your professional aspirations?
To use my skills as a communicator and manager to support U.S. Government (USG) humanitarian assistance programming.
Describe the work you do and how you think it makes a positive impact.
I support the deployment of a team of more than 40 Information Officers to aid in sudden-onset disasters and complex emergencies across the globe, enabling critical on-the-ground reporting of humanitarian needs and USG response efforts.
What are some of your accomplishments and/or what has been your proudest career moment?
Serving on the Türkiye-Syria earthquakes Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART) in February 2023.
What do you enjoy about working for Amentum?
My fantastic colleagues! My team on the Humanitarian Assistance Support Contract are all such kind, supportive, and knowledgeable people.
What are you passionate about?
Supporting my community and team, and making a difference however I can.
What’s the best your career advice you have received?
Always stay curious and seek to challenge yourself!
What does safety mean to you or do you have a favorite safety tip?
Safety means taking care of your mental health, as well as your physical health.
What’s the best invention in the world and why?
The internet. What in the world would we do without the internet?!
Why is it important that we spotlight our unmatched NextGen Talent?
Highlighting unmatched NextGen talent can help inspire others to see themselves in similar career paths one day. It’s hard to dream big if you don’t have strong role models!
