W O M E N W O R T H WAT C H I N G I N 2 0 0 8
“Together we can accomplish anything!”
Debra M. Lewis NUTTER McCLENNEN & FISH, L ULNPI T/EC DRS ETAT W NEEST A WR OM RY K
M
y earlier challenges pale in comparison to what I’m doing now. The talented and diverse people I work with each day (military, civilians, Iraqis and contractors from all over the world) are making a difference in the lives of the Iraqi people. Together, we manage the construction of a $2.3 billion program in essential infrastructure projects, including those that support water, sewer, electricity, medical care, education and transportation. Several Iraqis have asked me, “Why does the media hate us so much?” I’ve experienced doubters before as a member of West Point’s first class with women. In tough situations, I remind myself:
Negativism is toxic to our health and can derail even the best plan, diverting precious energy and focus away from overcoming our challenges. Set high interpersonal standards and stop negative thinking and behaviors. Skillfully frame things to be productive as you enhance trust and teamwork. Surround yourself with positive reminders such as quotes, mementos and photos of smiling faces and people who inspire you to greater achievements.
OPTIMISM IS AN ENERGY MULTIPLIER.
ONLY ONE PERSON CAN DERAIL YOUR TEAM, IF YOU LET THEM.
We need each other. In Iraq, over 15 percent of our team rotates monthly. Before a team member runs the ball in the wrong direction, ensure everyone knows what success looks like and are working together to get there.
Colonel; Commander, Central District, Gulf Region Division, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Baghdad and Al Anbar Provinces, Iraq
TITLE:
EDUCATION: BS, United States Military Academy; MBA, Harvard University; MS in National Resource Strategy, Industrial College of the Armed Forces, Washington, D.C. FIRST JOB: Platoon Leader, 63rd Engineer Company (Topographic), Fort Bragg, North Carolina READING:
Enlightened Leadership, by Doug Krug and
Ed Oakley My own—“A change in attitude has the power to change my day.” Towards others—“Treat people as if they were what they ought to be and you will help them become what they are capable of becoming.”—Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe
PHILOSOPHY:
FAMILY:
Husband, Doug Adams; three children
INTERESTS:
Horses, Oriental art, dining out—especially
desserts FAVORITE CHARITY:
West Point Equestrian Team
Give others the benefit of the doubt. Initial reports are often wrong, so ask good questions. Not obtaining available information can result in unsuccessful strategies.
DISCOVER THE CONTEXT.
Be aware of the situation and anticipate all outcomes. Otherwise, an unexpected riptide may pull you away from your intended goal. Your timing for presenting good ideas is also important. Use the current to your advantage, rather than ignore it at your peril or miss important opportunities.
WHEN BEING FLEXIBLE IS NOT ENOUGH, BE FLUID.
Work environments are stressful and tasks more complex. Time spent including others early and often, being respectful and fair, and finding out who else needs to know pays big dividends. The bottom line is that people are the ones who make a difference. Let each one know that they are valued because, “Together we can accomplish anything!”
REAL COMMUNICATION IS HARDER THAN EVER.
United States Army
COMPANY:
HEADQUARTERS:
Baghdad, Iraq
WEB SITE:
www.army.mil
BUSINESS:
U.S. Defense
EMPLOYEES:
480,000
PDJ P RO F I L E S I N D I V E R S I T Y J O U R N A L
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