A proud SSC employee and citizen soldier

Dave Awalt

By day, Dave Awalt serves Canadians as SSC’s Senior Regional Manager for Western Canada. On evenings and weekends, he serves Canadians as an Army Reservist.

On April 17, 2019, Dave was promoted to the rank of Brigadier-General and appointed Deputy Commander of the 3rd Canadian Division. Covering an area from the Pacific Ocean to Thunder Bay, Ontario, the 3rd Canadian Division is comprised of approximately 5,400 Regular Force soldiers, 4,800 Reserve Force soldiers, 1,400 DND civilian employees, and 900 Canadian Rangers. If you understand our military structure and chain of command, you will appreciate the level of responsibility and leadership this represents.

With 28 years in the Canadian Army and 16 years as a Public Servant, Dave knows how each career influences and supports the other. Leadership, discipline, training and readiness are critical elements in both of his jobs. The 3rd Canadian Division’s mindset of ‘One Team, One Mission’ certainly aligns with the solutions SSC delivers every day, as well.

Dave graciously answered four questions to help us better appreciate his devotion to service and impressive achievements.

Connections between careers

How do your two careers intermix? I started my career in the Army as a Signals Officer. This background fits very well with the role of SSC to provide secure and reliable IT services. However, my role as a Senior Regional Manager within SSC uses the officer-like qualities I gained over my career in the profession of arms more than my technical skills.

What skills do you carry from one to the other? Skills I have learned over my career such as leadership and inter-personal relations are vital to success both in and out of uniform. If we look after our people and ensure they have the abilities and tools to perform effectively, both personally and professionally, we can achieve our missions and tasks.

What do you value most about each job? I value the opportunity to lead and work with dedicated individuals in both professions as well as supporting Canadians at home and overseas.

How do you manage your time? Having a very supportive and understanding family is the most critical factor. Without their backing, it would certainly not be possible. Their support motivates me to ensure I protect family time as much as I can. The other key aspect is supportive managers and leaders within SSC, who understand the importance of the Army Reserve to me and Canada as a whole. The critical support of civilian employers is highlighted by the large number of Army Reservists currently assisting Canadians during the floods.

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