BLOOMINGTON, Minn. –
My DCMA showcases the Defense Contract Management Agency’s experienced and diverse workforce and highlights what being a part of the national defense team means to them. Today, John Tverberg shares his story.
My name is John Tverberg, and this is “My DCMA.”
I am a quality assurance specialist based at DCMA Twin Cities in Bloomington, Minnesota. My job duties include being a resident QAS, which requires me to split my time at two different suppliers that produce small and medium-sized caliber ammunition. I also assist my teammates as needed on other programs.
I have been a part of the DCMA team for eight years. I like working at DCMA because I am part of a team that believes in what we do and why we do it.
Since I started working at DCMA, quality assurance has changed. We previously focused heavily on product examination, but we’ve transitioned to a more streamlined effort of analysis and identification of risk, combined with various process evaluations focused on areas of risk to the program and the warfighter. When we determine that the supplier’s internal quality management system meets all contractual requirements and their manufacturing processes are adequate and properly controlled, we can then certify that the product meets contractual requirements. We, as QAS’s, can then focus our efforts on the higher risk processes and products which protects the customer, and ultimately, the warfighter.
DCMA is important to America’s warfighters because we are the honest broker between the supplier and the customer — our warfighters. We ensure the product meets the contractual quality requirements on time and on budget.
As the agency celebrates its 20th anniversary, I am interested in seeing what the future holds for Space Force and how DCMA will them. I look forward to supporting Space Force and doing my part, while still ensuring warfighters continue to receive the best and most current equipment available.
One of the great things about working at my contract management office is the leadership team, from my team leader to the commander. Everyone is professional and genuinely concerned about the wellbeing of personnel, especially during the current COVID-19 pandemic.
Something unique about me is that I served in the Air Force for 29 years in aircraft maintenance. My military career included being a crew chief as an Air Force Reserve technician in aircraft maintenance. Later, I progressed up the ranks to become a QAS, exercise evaluation team member, C-130 Hercules accessories systems flight chief, and a C-130 aircraft production superintendent. I have been on the receiving end of the products that DCMA oversees. I never knew about the agency’s work and the amount of effort that took place when receiving an ordered aircraft part. Now I have a greater appreciation for the efforts of DCMA.
My future career goals include continuing to provide quality assurance oversight on contracts. I want to ensure that our warfighters receive the best products available to keep them safe while performing their duties around the world and keeping us safe at home.
One of my favorite hobbies is hunting. I also have been walleye fishing for six years, and I am a tournament fisherman.