February 2019 Member Highlight: Laura Sandy

Can you briefly describe your career path?

I left active duty in 1992 after serving four years as an Environmental Health Technician and continued to work as a civilian in the medical field through 1998. My medical and military experience lead me to my first civil service position as a Medical Claims Adjudicator. In 2000 I graduated with a BS/BA from Columbia College and applied my education to a slight change in career to accounting and finance. My first civil service accounting position was as an entry level Non-appropriated Fund Financial Analyst (NAFFA). I was given the opportunity to fill a NAFFA developmental position with 86 CPTS in Germany followed by a two-year assignment to Lajes Field, Azores. My husband received orders to Peterson AFB, CO and I was able to go on leave without pay until something became available. This is where my transition from NAFFA to Budget would happen. I spent six years in a Wing Budget office learning the ins and outs of budget. I earned my CDFM-A certification and would branch out to become a Resource Director for the Force Support Squadron. I am currently at the US Air Force Academy which has offered a completely different experience in resource.

What are your future career goals?

I would like to pursue opportunities that allow me to expand my knowledge of different funding sources that result in innovating the future of the Department of Defense.

How has your involvement in ASMC helped to develop your career? Which ASMC programs/offerings have you found to be the most beneficial?

ASMC has been my avenue for leadership opportunities and exposure to a magnitude of diversified colleagues. The Professional Development Institute has been the most beneficial to me. The continued education, networking, and leadership opportunities have led to many experiences in my career that I would not have otherwise been exposed to.

If you could pass along one piece of advice to ASMC Early Careerists, what would it be?

Don’t be a fast burner, take your time and grow both horizontally and vertically. Reach out to experienced careerists and seek a good mentor that will provide both insight and true feedback on your journey.