By MC1 Lewis Hunsaker

National Federation of Federal Employees Local 1690 President Pete Randazzo has played an instrumental role in a recently announced DOD-wide civilian performance management system, an effort he has been involved with since October of 2010.

"I saw an opportunity to be part of a historical and unprecedented effort that could reshape DOD civilian culture," said Randazzo. "The return on this investment would be improved services and mission readiness for the military and its customers."

Initial discussions started in 2010 with more than 200 labor representatives, human resources professionals, supervisors and government leaders. Design teams were formed, with the details scrutinized by delicated working groups over the last two and a half years.

"A huge emphasis has been placed on employee engagement, the relationship between the first-line supervisor and employee, as well as investing in training for supervisors," said Randazzo. "Employees will feel valued and recognized for the work they perform, which will generate improved morale and help bring new ideas forward."

Over the next two years, a majority of the approximately 750,000 employees in the DOD civilian workforce will have their performance rated under this system – the timeline for NPS has yet to be finalized. Randazzo has more than 35 years of federal service, the past 21 have been at NPS.