What Does It Mean to Be A Public Service Worker?
Written by: Natalie Komitsky
For one week each year, the nation takes time to focus on the dedication, commitment, and sacrifice of federal, state, county, and local government employees. Here at Management Concepts, many of our instructors and staff have had experience as public service workers.
Phil Davidson, one of our dedicated senior instructors, was glad to share his perspective of public service based on 27 years of experience.
Q: Why did you choose to serve?
A: Leadership opportunities – I knew immediately that I could be a leader and not a follower. And, it happened right away. When I reported to my first duty station, I was immediately put in charge of 4 airmen. Before I retired, I led over 2,700 soldiers, sailors, airmen, marines, and civilians as the Commander of Defense Finance and Accounting Services (DFAS) Dayton.
Q: What did you learn from your experience that you would not have in another career?
A: Teamwork like no other – In the armed forces, you learn never to leave anyone behind. No matter the odds, everybody comes home. It is teamwork like no other because your life depends on it. The best part – you are well trained. I never was afraid, hesitant, or questioning my orders.
Q: What made it worthwhile?
A: Constant learning – Not a day went by where you were not presented with new challenges. And, you had to resolve those through teamwork. You learned everybody had an important role. No one’s role was less important than any other. You learned honesty, loyalty, and integrity were paramount. You also learned to value every single person. There is good in everyone.
Q: Would you recommend public service to others?
A: Definitely – I am constantly recommending the military service to anyone that wants the challenge of their life. I could not tell you how many times, while out training for Management Concepts, that I have spoken to sons or daughters of my students about service. They have called their children on the phone or brought them in after class for us to meet. I always tell them about MATTRESS – Money, Advancement, Travel, Training, Recreation, Education, Safety, and Security, all guarantees of military service.
Q: What is special about public service?
A: Public appreciation and personal satisfaction – Public service is special because so many of your fellow citizens are appreciative, and you always have that feeling of satisfaction after a mission is completed. “We did it.” It is a different service, you have to be selfless, you have to realize how important it is, and most importantly, you swore an oath to the flag, and you have to live that every day.
Thank you, Phil Davidson – and the many other MC employees with service experience for your service and continued dedication to the betterment of public service workers through your role at Management Concepts.
We also would like to thank all of the men and women who serve our nation as federal, state, county, and local government employees. Your hard work, dedication, and desire to help others makes our nation the envy of the world.
During Public Service Recognition Week, and every other week, we are grateful for your service.
