DLA celebrates the November 2026 Pathways to Career Excellence Program Graduates

Supporters gathered as 53 graduates from the Defense Logistics Agency Pathways to Career Excellence Program were celebrated in a ceremony in Philadelphia on November 4.

The PACE program is DLA's two-year training program designed to develop entry-level professionals for advancement to higher career levels. The graduates from each class select one of their peers to present their reflections during the graduation ceremony.

"Taylor Barletta is our team's Neil Armstrong," said Contract Specialist Colin Grace who was selected by his peers in class 48 to present the graduate reflections. "When Taylor sent a letter into the TEAMS chat that she had defeated the beast that is the contracting certification exam, I think you gave us all a feeling of those who watched Mr. Armstong take that first step on the moon. It was one small step for a Pacer-one giant leap for Pacer'kind."

"It is an honor to be with you all here today," said DLA Troop Support Commander Army Brig. Gen. Sean P. Kelly. "This will be the best thing I do all week. Thank you to the Career Services Branch for all that you do to support the PACE program. The dedication you all invest in mentoring, guiding and championing emerging talent at DLA Troop Support is evidence in the caliber of those before us here today."

This was the second ceremony of 2026 as PACER classes 46 & 47 graduated in April.

"It feels great to be done, and not having to do classes and more," said Contract Specialist Stephanie Witalec. "Happy to see what comes next in Construction and Equipment."

"It is a great relief to be done but also a great way to meet people in the workforce and get our feet wet with DLA," added Grace. "I'm looking forward to getting involved with my team in Medical, progressing in DLA."

Prior to Kelly having a photo opportunity with each graduate, he concluded with, "The warfighter may not know your name, but they place their lives in the hands based on the work you perform every single day."