At Amentum, we celebrate our people, our cultures, and we recognize the value of diversity and inclusion. In March, we’ll focus on Women’s History Month while shining a light on one employee at a time. Today’s Q&A is with Artemisa Costa, Category Manager, Global Supply Chain Management/ Corporate.
How did you come to join Amentum?
I really wanted to join the company. I read in an article that Amentum was chosen as one of America’s Greatest Workplaces 2023 by Newsweek. So, I saw the opportunity for a position, and I applied for it.
What is your professional and personal background?
Born and raised in the heart of Mexico City, I have embarked on a transformative professional journey spanning over two decades in Supply Chain across multiple industries.
My journey across continents provided me with a global perspective that was enriched by diverse cultural experiences. I consider myself very adaptable because I understand global dynamics, which proved critical in orchestrating successful collaborations with diverse teams from the Middle East, Europe, Asia, and South America.
I have a background in International Commerce and a master’s degree in Quality and Productivity, but my real learning experience has come from several mentors who have helped me advance in my career.
On a personal level, I am passionate about lifelong learning and development. I enjoy reading books and spending time with my family. Outside of work as a proud Latin individual, I embrace cultural heritage and enjoy sharing with others.
Describe the work you do and how you think it makes a positive impact.
I am currently working on a variety of projects for the corporate group, focused on innovation and enhancement initiatives. My job also entails conducting analysis and data evaluation, identifying opportunities for automation and value addition in Supply Chain domains. I am open to assignments (regardless of my level of expertise) because I believe that exposure is essential for ongoing learning and professional development.
What are some of your accomplishments and/or what has been your proudest career moment?
One of my proudest achievements was the establishment of expert networks across regions, coupled with spearheading of process enhancements that resulted in a staggering 40% improvement in process compliance audit results in 2018. As a result of this project several processes were consolidated and standardized across four regions.
What do you enjoy about working for Amentum?
Amentum is one of the best companies I’ve ever worked for. They are a very mature organization from a leadership standpoint. They genuinely care about their employees and communicate effectively while overseeing all aspects of change management. Amentum is consistent in their values and application.
What are you passionate about?
I’m deeply passionate about making a positive impact on others and leaving a legacy. I firmly believe that people will remember us based on how we treat them; even the smallest interactions can leave a significant positive or negative impact on others’ lives. Additionally, I find joy in learning from others and continuously growing, both personally and professionally. I devote time to reading books focused on self-improvement and motivation.
What’s your career advice?
I recommend to never assume you know everything regardless of your title or position, be humble, and open to learning from others. Every individual has a valuable insight to share, you just need to be receptive and willing to view things from different angles. This approach will expand your vision and perception of the situations that come across at work and will enable you to think outside of the box.
What does safety mean to you or do you have a favorite safety tip?
Safety requires thinking beyond yourself. It entails thinking of your family and others. It means being responsible to yourself, society, and anyone else around you.
What’s the best invention in the world and why?
I think it will depend on the age, but I believe the internet is the invention that has had the broadest and most profound impact across various aspects of life. It has transformed communication, commerce, education, and has connected billions of people worldwide revolutionizing information sharing, global trade and facilitating distance learning and providing platforms for social interaction and activism.
Anything else you would like to share from a personal or professional perspective?
The role or rank you hold within an organization does not inherently define genuine leadership. True leadership is characterized by distinct qualities that authentically shine through. It becomes evident when people willingly embrace your guidance and place unwavering trust in your decisions. This trust isn’t blind; it’s earned through a consistent record of success that extends beyond mere career advancements.
A true mark of leadership lies in your ability to empower others for their success. You champion their cause, regarding them as integral internal stakeholders. Your authority is wielded responsibly, free from any abusive tendencies or the imposition of fear. Instead, you foster a nurturing and positive environment. You can be a leader regardless of your title and start making a positive impact in others.
Considering this monthly observance, tell us more about yourself.
What’s your favorite book?
I have several books that I have enjoyed. I don’t have a preferred book but I can mention a couple:
• The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey
• Anatomy of an Illness by Norman Cousins
• Unlimited Power by Tony Robbins
• The Bible
