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. As part of National Safety Month, we’ve been featuring employees that focus on safety within each SBU. Today’s Q&A is with Phil Meyer of Aviation.
How did you come to join Amentum?
Our organization was acquired by Amentum in the fall of 2020.
What is your professional and personal background?
I grew up in the small town of Derby, Kansas, and left home to join the military in 1990. I was a professional soldier for more than 21 years, beginning my career as a young private in the infantry. I later reclassified into the aviation field as an air traffic controller until being promoted into Aviation Battalion and Brigade leadership positions. During my military career I earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Professional Aeronautics and Aviation/Aerospace Safety. I retired in early 2012 and began my contracting career as the Aviation Safety Officer. Since then I have had the opportunity to hold several different safety positions as contracts changed. Each position has challenged me in different ways, and I hope developed me into a well-rounded safety professional. We never really stop learning or honing our skills in this changing industry.
How did your military service prepare you for a successful career at Amentum?
The military provided me with an environment that constantly challenged and developed me in ways I could have never done on my own. It showed me that anything can be accomplished when a team puts their mind to it.
Describe the work you do and how you think it makes a positive impact.
Every day I try to help provide a safe work environment for our team members. I want them to feel confident that we (as an organization) have their best interests in mind and want them to return home to their families safely. If they know we care, then I believe they will rise to the occasion and take a proactive role in their own safety and the safety of others. This will simultaneously improve safety and productivity for the whole team.
What are some of your accomplishments and/or what has been your proudest career moment?
My accomplishments are small, it’s when you make mistakes you gain notoriety. Anytime we exceed our safety goals and objectives is a proud moment.
What do you enjoy about working for Amentum?
I enjoy being a part of a team that takes the health and welfare of its employees seriously.
What are you passionate about?
I’m passionate about my family and my career. They are very intertwined; one will affect the other either positively or negatively.
What’s your career advice?
I have few career tips to share:
• Speak of what you know, not what you think.
• Understand your audience.
• Own it – good or bad. Don’t make excuses.
• Never stop learning.
What does safety mean to you, or do you have a favorite safety tip?
Safety Tip: Before you do anything, think about standing in front of your boss or significant other and explaining your actions. You will be amazed at how it may affect your choices.
What’s the best invention in the world and why?
Indoor plumbing. You don’t think so? Turn the water off to your house this summer for a month and get back to me.
Anything else you would like to share from a personal or professional perspective?
Safety is a mindset and a culture. It doesn’t change overnight. It must be grown and executed at all levels to be effective.
