Our Deckplate leader of the week is Chief Petty Officer Daniel Negron, a storekeeper assigned to Headquarters Regional Support Team!
Chief Negron’s current duties include continuing to serve all customers in DCMS while working to implement a new FMPS support team for Headquarters. He has effectively balanced the increased workload, keeping customers happy AND communicating effectively with subordinates. His leadership has mitigated the stressful effects of an arduous organizational change on both customers and his team. He’s been a staunch advocate for not only his subordinates, but all junior members in and outside of Base National Capital Region that our initiatives may effect.
As the treasurer of the NCR Chief Petty Officer's Association, Negron was an instrumental leader in the establishment and operations of the COVID-19 kitchen. He is currently assigned to supervise all procurement transactions needed on behalf of DCMS customers and has been designated the leader for the new team’s development of workflows/processes that will be implemented for micro purchasing and Milstrip acquisitions for all of CGHQ.
Negron has supported and taken an active leadership role in a major HQ restructure implementing the new FMPS support team. During this transition one of his primary concerns was the impacts on the enlisted workforce regarding workspaces, chain of command and providing clear understanding of processes and procedures.
He’s active in the Chief’s Mess and communicates with the Chief of the Mess to ensure awareness to the Chief's Mess of local E6s advancing to E7 to allow for recognition of momentous milestone in members’ career. He was instrumental in the coordination with the USS Serpens Memorial Celebration as well as volunteers for to support.
As a leader, Chief ensures Enlisted Petty Officer of the Quarter recognition of deserving members within his world of work, including timely recognition of junior members including those not in his chain of command. He is a staunch advocate for the enlisted workforce.
1. In my opinion, what makes a "good" Chief, means to never forget where you came from. Most chiefs started as a fireman or seaman apprentice and have achieved that milestone advancement to chief petty officer. However, we cannot forget about what we went through to get here, so we have to continue to have open communication with our junior members and check in on them to make sure they are good in both their personal and work life. A “good” chief always keeps the line open with the junior members to let them know they are being supported by their leadership.
2. My advice to junior members is to continue studying for advancement and work towards your personal education. Try not to become stagnant where you are at, continue to push forward and move up the ranks. There are so many opportunities aside from your normal positions, check the message board, ask your supervisors and be open about your unit diversity. Also do not be discouraged to get underway; it can be tough at times, however it is very rewarding. You learn a lot and you can have a little fun. Be open to working with your leadership to help create a better environment for your shipmates. As you move up the ranks, remember that you still have to look after your junior petty officers. Looking out for each other will never get old.
Do you have a chief who you would like to recognize? Please contact Chief Petty Officer Crystalynn Kneen.