The finalists for WashingtonExec’s 2023 Pinnacle Awards were announced Sept. 25, and we’ll be highlighting some of them until the event takes place live, in-person Nov. 16.
Next is Government Cloud Executive of the Year finalist Chris Carrigan, who is a program manager for the Marine Corps Systems Command. Here, he talks about learning from failures and career turning points.
What’s one key thing you learned from a failure you had?
Failure has a unique way of imparting crucial lessons. One of the most significant insights I gained from not taking risks in cutting edge technology adoption within data and cloud management was the importance of adaptability and innovation in the ever-evolving landscape of technology.
For a considerable portion of my career, I had played it safe as a cloud services and data management program manager. Despite productive engagements with other Services and Agencies, I shied away from embracing emerging technologies or pushing the boundaries of what was conventionally considered safe and reliable.
As a result, I missed out on opportunities to harness the full potential of data and cloud solutions. It was when I encountered a major setback due to this risk-averse approach that the lesson truly hit home.
I realized that in today’s fast-paced digital world, standing still is akin to moving backward. The refusal to adapt and take calculated risks stifles growth and innovation. This experience compelled me to reevaluate my strategy.
I began to embrace change and explore new technologies and methodologies in data and cloud management. I learned that by taking measured risks I could not only stay relevant, but also drive efficiency and competitive advantage for my organization.
Ultimately, failure taught me that while security and reliability are paramount, so is the need to adapt and innovate. It underscored the importance of striking a balance between risk aversion and the pursuit of opportunities in data and cloud management, ensuring that I could navigate the ever-changing tech landscape with confidence and resilience.
What was a turning point or inflection point in your career?
A pivotal moment emerged when I shifted my focus towards mission-based intelligence and security for the United States. This transformative decision was born from a profound sense of duty and a deep-rooted desire to contribute to the nation’s safety and well-being.
As an intelligence professional, I had spent years working on various programs within national security. However, it was during a critical juncture that I recognized the need for a more purpose-driven approach.
As the technology world was evolving rapidly, our reliance on technology caused an explosion of emerging cyber threats and challenges that demanded a new level of dedication and innovation. This turning point led me to seek opportunities that aligned with my vision of safeguarding the nation’s interests and values. I pursued specialized training and collaborated with like-minded individuals who shared my commitment to the mission.
In my new role, I found myself at the forefront of critical operations, where every piece of information and every decision carried immense weight. The sense of responsibility was palpable, but it was also incredibly fulfilling. I knew that the work I was doing was not just a job; it was a mission that resonated with the very core of my identity.
This shift towards mission-based intelligence and security marked a profound chapter in my career. It allowed me to make a meaningful impact on the safety and prosperity of the United States, reinforcing my belief that dedication to a noble cause can be the driving force behind one’s professional journey.