Currently the vice president in charge of defense programs at Allison Transmission in Indianapolis, Dana Pittard increased the firm’s revenues by more than a third over a three-year period. The first African American vice president in the century-old history of the company and a veteran US Army officer, Dana Pittard ranked among Savoy magazine’s “Most Influential Blacks in Corporate America” in 2018.Every spring, the business- and lifestyle-focused publication announces this prestigious list of the most effective and inspiring African American executives. On the occasion of the 2018 list’s publication, Savoy’s editorial team noted that it represents an elite group of high achievers, all renowned for their leadership skills in visible roles in major corporations. All have contributed in some way to the promotion of growth in a variety of American and international industries. The special double-cover issue of Savoy celebrating this list spotlighted pharmaceutical executive Kenneth C. Frazier, CEO of Merck & Co., alongside actor Chadwick Boseman, star of the Oscar-nominated movie Black Panther. In addition to his work driving forward the success of Allison Transmission and the American defense industry, Major General Pittard was a recipient of the 2017 National Matt’s Hero Award for his suicide prevention work in the army, presented by the Matthew Silverman Memorial Foundation.
With 34 years of active duty in the United States Army, retired general Dana Pittard now serves as the vice president of defense programs at Allison Transmission, a company that has partnered with the US military for 100 years. In his free time, Dana Pittard enjoys traveling and hopes to visit at least 100 different countries. When tourists travel overseas, they can take many steps to respect the different cultures they encounter. With a deeper understanding of a country’s history and culture, tourists will have a richer travel experience. Here are a few ways to prepare: 1. Do your research. Before you arrive, read books and articles on the history of the country. This will give you a greater appreciation of historic and religious sites as well as social patterns.2. Arrive with an open mind. You will see, hear, and smell a huge variety of new things. Rather than withdrawing into the comfort of familiarity, make an effort to try new foods and new experiences.3. Learn a few key phrases. Knowing a few greetings and expressions of gratitude will go a long way in showing people of your host country respect.4. Dress appropriately. As you visit tourist sites, be aware that etiquette often dictates the kind of apparel that should be worn. You may need to have a head covering, avoid certain colors, or be prepared to remove your shoes.5. Use common sense when taking photos. Be conscientious and respectful of your hosts when you visit various destinations. Be mindful of the tone and emotional tenor of a site, respect the rules, and avoid taking inappropriate photos. By arriving at your destination with an educated, respectful view of the things you will encounter, you will have a more enjoyable and memorable visit.
Dana Pittard serves as the vice president of defense programs for Allison Transmission in Indiana, where he oversees initiatives in more than 110 countries. A former US Army officer, Dana Pittard maintains membership with several military associations. These include the Association of the United States Army (AUSA), a nonprofit that supports national security and advances efforts benefitting men and women in service. Among the organization’s goals is the education of its members, industry, the public, and Congress on the nature and characteristics of land warfare through its Institute of Land Warfare (ILW) program. The ASUA and the ILW’s efforts to advance this objective include the annual Global Force Symposium & Exposition, which promotes professional development and explores the future of innovation. Presentations and panel discussions review Army Operating Concept capabilities and address such topics as acquisition processes, military and industry partnerships, and research and development. In addition to its main programming, the symposium features a variety of special events for young and established professionals. The American Freedom Foundation will also return in 2019 to host the Warriors to the Workforce career fair, which is part of a nationwide initiative to find employment for veterans, transitioning military-service personnel, and the spouses of service members. Participants can meet with potential employers, engage in job interviews, and receive feedback on creating an effective resume. The 2019 AUSA Global Force Symposium and Exposition will take place in Huntsville, Alabama March 26-29. For details on registration, visit www.ausameetings.org/globalforce2019.
Dana Pittard, a senior executive at Allison Transmission, enjoys spending his free time competing in triathlons. As a resident of the greater Indianapolis metropolitan area, Dana Pittard has myriad options when choosing where to train for the running and biking portions of these events. According to experts at Indianapolis Monthly and VisitIndy.com, Indianapolis’ best running and biking destinations include:Eagle Creek ParkDiverse routes abound at Eagle Creek Park, the country’s sixth-largest municipal park. Runners can choose from hiking trails ranging from 2.5 to nearly seven miles, while bikers can pedal down multiple paved loops.Canal WalkAlthough located in the center of downtown Indianapolis, this 1.5-mile path provides a quiet, peaceful place to exercise along the Central Canal. Individuals looking to extend their workouts can connect from the Canal Walk to the three-mile White River Trail.Fort Harrison State ParkNicknamed Fort Ben, this former military base is home to short trails visitors can easily string together. Recommended routes include Schoen Creek Trail, a mountain-biking/trail-running path that stretches across three miles of steep, sinuous terrain.
