PBN 2023 Business Women Awards
TECHNICAL SERVICES WOMAN TO WATCH: Alison Wicks | Naval Undersea Warfare Center Division Newport policy division head and contracting officer
ALISON WICKS HAS EXPERIENCED the sort of professional trajectory that interns everywhere would dream about. She not only secured a full-time position at her dream company but also built a thriving career at Naval Undersea Warfare Center Division Newport for around 16 years – and counting.
Wicks, described by her colleagues as a “role model” and “go-to person” within the organization, works in NUWC’s contracting department. Wicks is commissioned to ensure compliance with contracts, in addition to examining “award decisions for multimillion-dollar actions,” developing companywide trainings and more.
Wicks began interning for NUWC in 2007 and was promoted to various roles. Among them were a contracting officer in 2010, a branch head in 2019 and now her current role as the warfare center’s policy division head and contracting officer.
“These last 16 years have gone by in a blink of an eye,” Wicks said. “Along the way I have learned an immense amount, have developed incredible relationships, and I hope have demonstrated that opportunities are available for those who don’t shy away from hard work.”
Throughout Wicks’ career, she has developed a work philosophy that centers on supporting and advancing her colleagues’ professional development, especially the women she works with. Wicks describes herself as a “strong advocate” for her workforce and mentees, and is accessible to them whenever they need help or guidance.
“I lead by example for my entire workforce, but most importantly as a female figurehead in a male-dominated industry,” Wicks said.
Wicks remains committed to championing the women in her department. She says she’s proud to be viewed as a role model and to show that “women have an important role in this organization and a critical seat at the table.” Wicks also said that supporting women in her organization “is what continues to motivate me to this day.”
“As a female leader, I am not afraid to voice my opinions and to hold everyone on the team accountable to get the mission done,” she said. “I don’t shy away from difficult conversations, especially when they revolve around ensuring female perspectives are taken into account.”
