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. In March, we’ll focus on Women History Month (WHM). Today’s Q&A is with Mallory Arnold, Business Development, IS4.
How did you come to join Amentum?
A business connection of mine encouraged me to apply. After initial conversations with my now boss, I knew it would be a great team to work for. The energy was very positive, and I could tell it would be a good fit for me with opportunity for growth.
What is your professional and personal background?
Professional: I got my bachelor’s degree in Spanish and Russian languages from the University of Kentucky in Lexington (#BigBlueNation #UKWildcats). I chose this major because of my love of travel and culture. I went on to get my MBA at Philadelphia University. After I graduated, I worked in Baltimore in advertising, marketing, and web development. Ultimately, I was drawn to the defense industry because I had several friends who worked at Aberdeen Proving Ground (APG), and it seemed interesting. I started working in defense in 2014. I have been very fortunate to have amazing mentors along the way who taught me so much about both this industry and about myself.
Personal: As you may have guessed, I’m a “displaced Kentuckian” with a love of travel, culture, fashion, and basketball. I have two children (a boy and a girl), two stepsons, and three fur babies (two cats and a dog). I play violin and viola and have way too many houseplants! It’s basically a jungle over here!
Describe the work you do and how you think it makes a positive impact.
Business development is sales. My job is to understand and communicate Amentum’s programs, processes, and tools, and translate those into impactful offerings for the Army customers at APG and their mission. I believe the work I do helps the warfighter stay safe from our adversaries.
What are some of your accomplishments and/or what has been your proudest career moment?
In 2020 I received an award through AFCEA International, and I was honored to have been selected. But the moments I have been most proud of have not been recognitions, awards or big contract wins, but rather the small and pivotal moments where I could sense myself growing into a better person and facing the unknown with courage. For instance, in 2014 I had a job offer from a small defense company. I remember that I had gone camping that summer and was mulling over the offer. I sat in front of the campfire for hours one night thinking about my life and facing my fears. Saying yes to things that scare you is something worthy of pride.
What do you enjoy about working for Amentum?
I like being a part of a big, diverse team. There is a lot to learn from everyone. The IS4 BD team has a great culture. Everyone is helpful and respectful. Even though we are geographically dispersed, the comradery is strong!
What are you passionate about?
I am passionate about learning. I love finding new hobbies, playing a new song, cooking a new recipe, traveling to a new place, or finding new experiences.
What’s your career advice?
So much. Don’t be afraid of change. Have faith in yourself. Follow your instincts. Lift up other people and help them. Learn when to ask for help. Don’t be afraid to speak up when you have a differing opinion/idea. Learn something new every day. Read and research. Shorter emails are usually better. Get involved in lots of different aspects of your company. Take time to get to know people. Admit when you’re wrong (embrace failure) or admit when someone else has a better idea. Be humble and always give credit to others.
What does safety mean to you or do you have a favorite safety tip?
Trips and falls pose the most danger in my everyday life. So I try to avoid them by not carrying too much, watching my footing, and wearing appropriate footwear.
What’s the best invention in the world and why?
Vaccinations, because they save lives.
What does this year’s IWD theme, #BreakTheBias mean to you?
Break the Bias gives me hope that my daughter will grow up in a society free of discrimination and stereotypes, in a society that values her unique perspective and opinions. Break the Bias gives me hope that I am raising my son to condemn toxic male culture and to not be threatened by strong women, but rather to be inspired by them.
Anything else you would like to share from a personal or professional perspective?
Feel free to friend me on LinkedIn!
