NDIA's tech info unit initiates apprentice program.

• Author: Thomas, Richard C.
• Position: NDIA News - National Defense Industrial Association

NDIA'S Technical Information Division has initiated a new apprentice-recognition program for individuals relatively new to the configuration and data-management disciplines. The initial group of apprentice candidates were qualified in 2003, and the process has continued throughout 2004.

Because of recent increases in activity at the Departments of Defense and Homeland Security, many individuals are entering the CDM discipline as an avenue for applying their talents in the business world. Accordingly, TID in 2003 launched a CDM apprentice program.

This initiative established a method for entry-level individuals to be designated a CDM apprentice, which is the first step of a progression ladder leading toward CDM certification after attaining NDIA'S experience requirements. It also allows those entering the discipline to become knowledgeable of all aspects of CDM and to have a basis to determine if they desire to continue oil the path toward certification. This new program has become an important aspect of the CDM certification program and a means of earning peer recognition.

During 2003, many individuals earned their professional status as certified configuration and data managers or certified configuration and data specialists. Those who achieved the highest examination scores included Hayden L. Leon, of Northrop Grumman Corp., at the managers' level, and Darlene J. Shevham, of Boeing Integrated Defense Systems, at the specialists' level.

The following, listed by level and employer affiliation, were certified in 2003. Those achieving designation as a CDM Apprentice also are listed.

Certified Configuration and Data Manager James V. Beamon Consultant Chuck Bowen Matrix, LLC Kenneth Branch Stewart & Stevenson TVS Pamela Clemens United Defense LP Wayne S. Coffey Lockheed Martin Space Systems Steve Collier BAE Systems Doug L. Dalager Lockheed Martin Tactical Systems Richard R. Davis U.S. Coast Guard Shelley A. Diedrich U.S. Coast Guard Patricia A. Doyle Configuration Management Inc. Debra K. Duncan Alliant Tech Systems Scott S. Ellis ARINC Engineering Services Carl A. Estey Lockheed Martin Tactical Systems Kathryn Fuszner U.S. Air Force AAC/WMRA Katherine J. Gavin Dynamic Telecommunications Inc. Sheena Gilbert BAE Systems Krishna Gupta United Defense LP Greg W. Hocking Boeing Integrated Defense Systems Andrew E. Jost Lockheed Martin Corp. Hayden L. Leon Northrop Grumman Corp. Michael Lobster Stewart & Stevenson TVS Julie K. McCloskey Lockheed...