Women's History Month Spotlight: Beth Ford

BATTLE CREEK, Mich. -

Throughout March, in honor of Women's History Month, DLA will celebrate women who have made an impact through their sacrifices, public service, and inspirational work. This year's theme, "Women Who Have Made Great Achievements," acknowledges women who have shaped U.S. history and made contributions to pave the way forward. By regularly highlighting DLA employees through Special Emphasis Program observances, we gain valuable insight and perspective from individuals who represent the full diversity of our agency's workforce.

The following Women's History Month Q&A features Beth Ford, who serves the agency as director of the DLA Disposition Services North-East region team.

What strategies have you found most effective in navigating challenges and achieving success in your leadership role?

I look for the positive in challenges. It is easy to stay below the line, but I try to stay above the line and find the best approach that keeps me in my line of genius.

How do you prioritize and balance different responsibilities to ensure both personal and professional growth?

I read a book five years ago called "15 Commitments for the Conscientious Leader." The book focus was being present in all that you do. It changed my whole mindset and the way that I approach things.

What advice do you have for aspiring women looking to advance in their careers?

I made a promise to myself when I retired from the military. It was a simple one: I would never take a job that I didn't like. In short, know what makes you happy and what you are good at. Once you know that, don't settle. Set goals to get you where you want to go.

How do you stay motivated and inspired as a leader?

I love change and challenges, but most of all, I love people. Change and challenge keep me engaged, curious, and ever adapting. Developing, mentoring, coaching others and seeing them succeed keep me inspired and moving forward. I celebrate the small and big wins. I even celebrate some of the losses I have encountered because those failures led to other doors opening.

What is the most significant barrier to female leadership?

I would say being underestimated. Those first impressions where you're labeled as "not _______ enough." You're not strong enough, smart enough, and so on. I think everyone has these moments. I will say that I have never seen being a female as a barrier. I knew early in life what I was good at, and I believed in myself even when others didn't.

Have you ever felt imposter syndrome, and if so, how did you navigate your way through it?

No, I don't think so. I am hard on myself and have high standards and work ethic. Knowing this, when I hit pitfalls, I can adjust to see the good and bad, take that knowledge, and move forward.

Who was/is your role model and/or leadership mentor?

I have had many. My grandmothers both impacted me immensely. My dad's mom was a stay-at-home wife who raised 16 children. She taught me patience, love for the earth and animals, and kindness. My mom's mom was the primary means of income. She showed me what strong work ethic looked like. I was blessed to have these two strong women in my life.

What makes you a strong woman? What fulfills you?

Hmm. I have never thought as myself as a strong woman. I am just a person who cares about other people. I guess I would be called a giver. I believe in treating others like I want to be treated, working hard and playing hard, honesty, and doing the difficult but right things in life. Not sure if this makes me strong, but it makes me who I am. Helping, coaching, teaching, and mentoring others fulfills me.

What advice do you have for women that want to do more?

If you want to do more, then do it. What I am saying is, so many of us say we want to do something but do nothing about it. How often have you said or heard another person say, "I want to go back to school, make more money, have a family, lose weight, etc.?" I say do it. Take the steps to get started and stick with it. Write it down and pursue it. If you continue to just say it and not take the actions to get there, nothing will change.

What advice do you have for women looking to grow within the government?

Find your passion - something that you love - and learn it! Learn it from bottom to the top. Don't stop there, teach others and share your knowledge and greatness (your genius). Don't be afraid to ask for help.

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