Tyra Dent

As a native Washingtonian, I've been exposed to government since the beginning. Most of my family worked in some branch of the federal government. At 15, I started summer jobs at cabinet-level agencies. After college, I told myself I'd only stay in government for three years. Three years turned into 40.

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I remember attending high-level meetings with senior leaders early in my career and noticing the lack of diversity at the table. There weren't many women or minorities at those tables. I shared that concern with my mom. I think a seed was planted in me then - to make a difference.  I took an opportunity to have a voice, to represent other constituencies, and to have a positive impact on developing policy.

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There was a pivotal moment early in my career soon after obtaining my bachelor's degree when I applied for a career ladder specialist position. I was not selected. Upon meeting with the selecting official to learn why, I was informed that in this instance experience outweighed education. That insight stuck with me. While I was disappointed and disheartened, it taught me to take ownership of my career. We'll encounter bumps and detours, it's on us to leverage those moments and redirect ourselves on a path aligned with our goals. I continued my search and within the year was offered a career ladder specialist position at another agency. One year after that assignment and having obtained my Master's in Public Administration, I was selected as one of ~ 200 Presidential Management Fellows (PMF). I learned to embrace change, build relationships, and remain committed to my professional aspirations.

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Now I serve as President of the African-American Federal Executive Association. We create safe spaces for our members to pursue their professional aspirations. People need to feel valued, that their perspectives matter. I've talked with folks who don't speak up in professional settings, lacking confidence or feeling their position doesn't give them a platform. My advice? Practice. Put yourself in safe spaces where you can have a voice without fear. Take advantage of those opportunities. Find a mentor to guide you. It's about developing comfort and confidence in your difference.

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Public service is changing, I worry about how it resonates with the next generation. For me, it was a call to serve, a call to duty. I took pride in that. I hope we can modernize and enhance our civil service to meet today's challenges and continue attracting and hiring dedicated public servants.