Marie Garrett:  

Life Upon graduation in 1971, I was employed by the Department of the Navy, specifically the Naval Ship Systems Command in Crystal City where I started as a GS-2, Clerk Typist. I quickly progressed through the secretarial field to a GS-5 and decided that I was interested in becoming a contract administrator. I applied for a position in my office and was hired as a contract administrator, GS-7 with potential to GS-11. Upon completion of my highest potential grade, I quickly decided to step up to the plate to become a Contract Specialist. I attended many colleges and universities to obtain the business credits that I needed to obtain that position. I was hired as a GS-12 Contract Specialist by the Military Sealift Command in Washington, DC. After one year on the job, I became the Branch Head of the Supply Contracting Office and a GS 13. I continued to sharpen my skills as a Contracting Officer and after a couple of years I was hired by the Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Acquisition and Business Management as a GS 14. I worked in this position as a Procurement Analyst for 13 years providing expert advice to the Navy systems commands. After thirteen years, I was looking for a change so I decided to move to San Diego, CA. My then husband also was interested in a change...Expand for more