The finalists for WashingtonExec’s 2024 Pinnacle Awards were announced Sept. 20, and we’ll be highlighting some of them until the event takes place live, in-person Nov. 21.
Next is Yusuf Raza, program manager of the Citizenship and Immigration Services’ ODOS III, a finalist in the Government Information Technology of the Year, category. Here, Raza talks about recent achievements, shares career advice and more.
What key achievements did you have in 2024?
One of my key achievements in 2024 has been the significant growth of the ODOS program, making it the largest program at Alpha Omega (AO). This success was driven by our expansion into new territories within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) space, allowing us to strengthen our foothold in the market. Beyond the sheer size of the program, this achievement reflects the trust we’ve earned by consistently delivering quality support and meeting the mission-critical needs of our government clients. It has also provided the company with new opportunities for strategic growth and long-term sustainability, particularly within the DHS environment. These efforts have positioned AO as a leading force within the industry, opening doors to further collaborations and expanding our portfolio in key mission areas.
What are your primary focus areas going forward, and why are those so important to the mission?
Going forward, my primary focus areas are threefold. First, continuing to provide excellent support to the USCIS mission by supplying top-tier resources that enable them to meet their operational and mission goals. This is vital to ensuring the agency’s continued success and AO’s standing as a trusted partner. Second, I aim to groom and mentor the future leaders at AO, ensuring that our next generation of talent is prepared to lead, innovate, and maintain our strong reputation within the government contracting sector. Leadership development is crucial to our long-term success. Lastly, discovering new opportunities for growth and expansion within the DHS space is key. This involves identifying and capitalizing on emerging needs and trends in the industry to maintain our competitive edge and build on the foundation we’ve established in this space.
What’s your best career advice for those who want to follow in your footsteps?
You never know when a task or an assignment that may seem like a pain or “not fun” can turn into the career-changing opportunity you never knew it could. Keep an open mind, be a sponge, and learn as much as you can from the people who surround you. Every experience, no matter how small, has the potential to shape your future. Get a mentor or advisor who can offer guidance and perspective, helping you navigate your career journey. And most importantly, do not be afraid to ask the difficult questions. Sometimes, those conversations will lead to breakthroughs that propel your career forward.
