AUSA Urges Congress to Enhance Reserve Operational Readiness

A leader in the defense industry with a history as a general officer in the United States Army, Dana Pittard has served as vice president of defense programs with Allison Transmission since 2015. Outside of the professional arena, Dana Pittard is a member of the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) and a regular attendee of the annual AUSA Convention.

Established in 1950, AUSA is a nonprofit association dedicated to serving Army soldiers, Army-affiliated civilians, Army families, Army industry partners, and other supporters of a strong national defense. On April 29, 2019, the organization endorsed a letter to the U.S. House and Senate armed services committees that endorsed the TRICARE Reserve Select expansion, modernization, and recapitalization of military reserve component equipment platforms. The letter also asked for consistent National Guard and Reserve equipment account funding and a general intensification of full-time military support. In addition to bearing the signature of AUSA president and CEO general Carter F. Ham, the letter was signed by multiple military organizations including the Reserve Officers Association and the Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the United States.

The Young Professionals of AUSA

The vice president of defense programs at Allison Transmission, Dana Pittard oversees business operations in more than 100 countries. After serving as a major general in the United States Army, Dana Pittard maintains active membership in the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) and regularly attends AUSA events each year.

AUSA, a professional development and educational association dedicated to supporting the men and women who serve in the United States Army, maintains several programs and initiatives, including Young Professionals (YP), a nationwide effort to increase interest in AUSA among emerging leaders. 

By joining YP, young leaders are rewarded with numerous networking opportunities. Members can participate in mentorship programs or meet and speak with business leaders, civic leaders, and senior military leaders.

Beyond mentorship and networking, YP grants young members opportunities to participate in professional development forums and events. Local AUSA chapters are located throughout the United States and in Japan, Germany, the Middle East, and South Korea. Members can also seek leadership positions in the organization.

Savoy Honors Indianapolis Veteran as a Corporate Trailblazer

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.

Respecting Cultures When You Travel

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.