Audrey Vance

Years with MIL: 3.5 

Why did you decide to join MIL?

I was looking to challenge myself and grow as a professional. Previously, I worked as a property manager for a local real estate company and I knew that property management was not the career I ultimately wanted for myself. Several of my friends had already joined the MIL team, and based on the positive experiences they shared with me, I knew I wanted to pursue a career with MIL.

What are you working on now?

I provide support for the Capability Maturity Model Integration (CMMI) initiative for both MIL and the Department of State (DoS). Currently, I am participating on the appraisal team, acting as the lead analyst for MIL’s CMMI reassessment, which covers Level 3 for Development and Level 2 for Services.

Why do you enjoy working at MIL?

A primary responsibility of my current job involves interacting with employees from different positions of the organization, and across several functional areas. This interaction allows me to meet new people and learn more about MIL and DoS as a whole.

What is the best piece of career advice you can offer someone in your field who is either applying to or beginning a career at MIL?

The best career advice I could offer someone in my field would be to expand your self-knowledge wherever possible. When I first started at MIL, I was curious as to how all the different groups interacted with each other to complete a project. I took every opportunity that presented itself to be cross-trained in the different process areas. I believe that my knowledge of the different process areas is one of the primary reasons I was selected to lead the CMMI initiative.

If applicable, please share a memorable/significant experience that has occurred during your time with MIL.

I worked closely with senior management at both MIL and DoS on the multi-year DoS CMMI appraisal project. In Oct. 2016, DoS was awarded CMMI level 2 in Development.