EDITOR'S NOTE: We'll have an article introducing Vice Adm. Lewis, along with more photos and video from the ceremony, here and on Facebook later this week.
FORT LEE, Va. — The Defense Contract Management Agency has a new director.
Navy Vice Adm. David Lewis took the helm of the agency from Air Force Lt. Gen. Wendy Masiello during a change of command ceremony here May 24.
Approximately 300 people attended the ceremony presided over by James MacStravic, who is performing the duties of the under secretary of defense for acquisition, technology and logistics.
During the ceremony, MacStravic thanked Masiello for her servant leadership and accomplishments as director. He noted that during her three-year tenure, the agency streamlined business processes; implemented various cost and pricing initiatives, emphasizing cost reductions; improved communication within the Department of Defense and industry; and smoothly transferred the contract administration of various contracts in Afghanistan from DCMA to the Army.
“DCMA continues to play a vital role in our nation’s defense,” he said. “When I think of Wendy’s tenure, I think of ‘one team, one voice.’ She’s leaving behind a lasting legacy.”
MacStravic has known Lewis for 20 years, and praised the new director on his background overseeing numerous shipbuilding contracts. Earlier in the day, he presided over a small ceremony promoting Lewis to vice admiral.
“Dave brings a wealth of technical competence and professionalism,” said MacStravic. “He understands DCMA, and he brings the right experience.”
Lewis graduated in 1979 from the University of Nebraska and was commissioned through the Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps program. His most recent assignment was as the commander of the Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command in San Diego.
Lewis said he was looking forward to his new position.
“I like what I have seen, and I especially like the changes that have been started, and contemplated under Wendy’s leadership,” said Lewis. “I look forward to working with all of you over the next several years.”
Lewis said he wants to focus on three initiatives as his initial commander’s intent — DCMA must continue to deliver; the agency must provide the best value to the nation; and agency employees should continue to work smarter, not harder.
“We are, first and foremost, a product delivery organization,” said Lewis. “Our nation’s warfighters expect our industry counterparts to deliver the equipment and systems they need to fight and win our nation’s wars, and DCMA is the Department of Defense organization tasked to make sure that happens at the factory floor."
After the change of command ceremony, Masiello held her retirement ceremony, as she called it "graduating" from the Air Force after 36 years. She thanked her family for their support, and said she was looking forward to spending more time with her husband, Tom, himself a retired Air Force major general.
She said there were mentors who helped her during her career, including Charlie Williams, her predecessor and former DCMA director, who encouraged her to take assignments she would not have chosen. Besides having mentors and challenging assignments, Masiello said an important skill she honed and everyone needs to sharpen is listening.
“If you want to be the best you can be, you have to listen to what others have to say and be open to feedback.”
Masiello closed by thanking employees for their hard work and urging them to continue to tell the agency story.
“I want to thank you for being on my team, and for letting me be a part of your team,” she said. “Thank you for the privilege of serving with you and for you. Thank you letting me be a part of the journey.”