Written BY:

President & CEO

Chels Chae

Midyear Assessment: A Path to Long-term Success

As we reach the midpoint of the year at DP&R, it is a useful moment to pause, reflect, and reassess our progress and 2024 strategy. For me, this midyear assessment is not just a routine check-in but a crucial exercise in realistic, honest, strategic prioritization and long-term vision. We are committed to excellence and continuous improvement; hence, I take this time to evaluate where we stand, address core issues, and refine our path forward. As I am in the middle of this assessment, I wanted to share what is guiding me. My approach to an assessment needed to follow these six principles:

Realistic Honesty with Myself

The foundation of any meaningful assessment is honesty. As the one with personal responsibility for DP&R’s successes and failures, it is imperative to confront the reality of my performance. This means acknowledging both my achievements and shortcomings without bias. By being realistic, I can identify areas that require improvement and avoid the pitfalls of self-deception that can lead to stagnation.

Tackling the Hard Issues First

Superficial fixes may offer short-term relief, but they fail to address the underlying problems that hinder my progress. My assessment must focus on tackling the hard issues head-on. Whether it's addressing process inefficiencies, resolving communication breakdowns, or enhancing project management practices, confronting these core challenges is essential. By prioritizing these difficult issues, I facilitate building a stronger foundation for long-term success.

Making the Necessary Cuts

In my effort to achieve DP&R’s goals, tough decisions are inevitable. There may be projects, strategies, or even partnerships that, despite initial promise, no longer align with our objectives. It is crucial to make the necessary cuts, shedding those elements that do not contribute to my long-term vision. This strategic pruning, if needed, ensures that DP&R’s resources are focused on areas that drive value and significance.

Lifting Up Our Eyes to See Long-term Goals

In the daily grind, it is easy to lose sight of the bigger picture. This midyear assessment is a reminder to lift up my eyes and refocus on DP&R’s long-term goals. By revisiting the mission and vision, I can ensure that our current efforts are aligned with our overarching objectives. This perspective shift is essential for maintaining motivation and direction.

Resisting the Temptation to Jump on Urgent but Unimportant Items

Urgency often masquerades as importance, leading me to prioritize tasks that do not significantly impact our long-term goals. This midyear assessment is an opportunity to resist this temptation and focus on what truly matters to me. By distinguishing between the urgent and the important, I can allocate my time and resources more effectively, ensuring that my efforts contribute to DP&R’s strategic objectives.

Reviewing Goals for Value and Significance

Finally, a thorough assessment involves revisiting my goals to evaluate their value and significance. Are our goals still relevant? Do they align with my long-term vision? This review process helps me identify any necessary adjustments and ensures that our objectives remain meaningful and impactful.

My midyear assessment is more than a reflective exercise; it is a strategic recalibration that positions DP&R for future success. By embracing realistic honesty, addressing hard issues first, making necessary cuts, maintaining a long-term perspective, resisting the lure of urgency, and evaluating the significance of our goals, I can navigate the complexities of how I see myself with clarity and purpose. As I move forward, my expectation is that this assessment will guide me towards achieving DP&R’s mission with renewed focus and determination.

Written BY:

William Alpers
Operational Readiness Planner

Emergency Support Function #14

CISA Central Emergency Response Operations Branch

Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA)

William Alpers

Reflecting on ESF #14: A Journey in Self-Assessment

As we delve into the theme of self-assessment, it's an opportune moment to reflect on my journey within the Emergency Support Function #14 (ESF #14) realm. Spearheading efforts to build this crucial aspect of the WISE contract program from the ground up has been both challenging and immensely rewarding.

Established by the 2019 update to the National Response Framework (NRF), ESF #14 stands as a beacon of collaboration, aligning and facilitating cross-sector operations to stabilize key supply chains, community lifelines, and National Critical Functions. Anchored by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the joint efforts ensure seamless information-sharing and collaboration among government, private sector, and infrastructure stakeholders.

My journey began with a vision—to create a program that embodies resilience and adaptability. Each member of our WISE contract team brought their unique strengths to the table, contributing to the tapestry of expertise that defines our collective effort. From drafting essential documents such as the Concept of Operations (CONOP) for ESF #14 to creating informative resources like a one-pager for ESF #14 Coordinators to advertise ESF #14 capabilities, every contribution has been instrumental in shaping the program's trajectory.

Furthermore, our role extends beyond coordination; we integrate Sector-Specific Agencies' response operations with ESFs and public-private entities, working tirelessly to prevent or mitigate cascading failures across multiple critical infrastructure sectors during response operations. Our mission encompasses the facilitation of stabilizing community lifelines and critical supply chains, recognizing their pivotal role in maintaining societal resilience.

In this journey of self-assessment, we've embraced introspection and collaboration, recognizing our strengths while acknowledging areas for growth. The process of updating the training program serves as a testament to our commitment to continuous improvement and adaptability. As we train new cadre and regional coordinators, we lay the groundwork for a more robust and resilient ESF #14 framework and create a more seamless national response program.

In closing, my journey within ESF #14 epitomizes the essence of self-assessment – a relentless pursuit of excellence fueled by the collective expertise of our team. The challenges we've faced in creating this program have provided us with invaluable opportunities for self-assessment and reflection, enabling us to grow both individually and as a team. I am grateful to DP&R for allowing me the opportunity to work on the WISE contract in this capacity. As we look ahead, let us remain steadfast in our commitment to safeguarding our communities and strengthening cross-sector partnerships.

Desiree Marts -
Director of Human Resources

Desiree Marts

Mid-Year HR Department Assessment: Celebrating Our Successes

As we reach the half-way mark of 2024, we’d like to take a moment to reflect on the tremendous accomplishments our HR department and broader organization have achieved. Through dedication, innovation, and a commitment to excellence, we've set a high standard and earned notable accolades that highlight our success.

Best Places to Work in Hawaii 2024

We are thrilled to highlight that our company has been named one of the Best Places to Work in Hawaii for 2024. This prestigious award is a testament to our unwavering commitment to creating a supportive, inclusive, and dynamic (no pun intended!) workplace environment. Our efforts to foster a culture where employees feel valued, engaged, and motivated have clearly paid off. This recognition is not just an honor but a reflection of the hard work and collaborative spirit that is felt at every level of our organization.

Our initiatives over the past year, including enhanced employee wellness programs (introduction of Street Parking fitness program and incentive), flexible working arrangements, and professional development opportunities, have been instrumental in earning this accolade. This award is a celebration of our entire workforce and the vibrant community we have built together.

Continued Excellence in CPARS Performance

Our sustained excellence in the Contractor Performance Assessment Reporting System (CPARS) is another significant highlight of the year. CPARS is a critical evaluation system that measures the performance and quality of our contracts and services. Consistently high ratings in CPARS reflect our exceptional capability, reliability, and professionalism.

Achieving excellence in CPARS is a direct reflection of our highly skilled and dedicated workforce. It demonstrates our commitment to delivering superior results and maintaining the highest standards of quality and performance. Our team's ability to consistently exceed expectations is a cornerstone of our success and a major factor in securing continued business and new opportunities.

Reflecting on Our Workforce

At the heart of these achievements is our remarkable team – the DP&R Team. Our employees are our greatest asset, and their hard work, creativity, and dedication are the driving forces behind our success. The recognition we've received is a direct result of their efforts and the positive work culture we have cultivated.

The HR department has played a crucial role in supporting our workforce, from recruitment and onboarding to ongoing training and development. We are committed to continuing to invest in our employees' growth and well-being, ensuring they have the resources and support they need to thrive.

Looking Forward

As we look ahead to the second half of the year, we are excited about the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead. Our recent successes have set a strong foundation, and we are positioned to build on this momentum. We will continue to strive for excellence in all areas, focusing on innovation, employee engagement, and delivering outstanding results for our clients. Our HR team is continuously exploring additional benefits and supporting activities to aid in the support of our team members and their families.

Thank you to everyone for your hard work and dedication. Together, we will continue to achieve great things and solidify our reputation as a top employer and industry leader.

Written BY:

Joshua Tyler -
Director of Logistics

Joshua Tyler

Change is an inevitable part of life, and over the past year, I have experienced various changes in my role as the Director of Logistics for Dynamic Planning & Response LLC. These changes have presented unique challenges and opportunities for growth, allowing me to expand my skills and bring about positive transformation within the organization.

Late last year, I, Dave and Chels all transitioned to teleworking. This decision was made as a strategic move to reduce operating costs and improve the efficiency of our operations. While many folks would happily welcome the opportunity to telework, I had my apprehensions toward the prospect of doing so. I have always been someone who enjoyed the office setting and looked forward to the daily interaction one has with their coworkers. This necessitated a change in mindset and approach and after several months I began to find a routine and better utilize technologies I had only previously dabbled in.

Moreover, with the newfound flexibility of working remotely, I also had the opportunity to invest time and resources into renovating my home office. Creating a functional and inspiring workspace was crucial for maintaining productivity and motivation. I dedicated myself to research and planned renovations that would enhance my professional environment. This experience allowed me to tap into my creative side and develop a space that not only facilitated work but also reflected my personality and work style.

Another change that impacted my role as Director of Logistics was the increased focus on business development and collaboration with other like-minded companies. As part of our growth strategy, DP&R regularly considers teaming opportunities with other companies to expand our market reach and capabilities. This required me to take on a more active role in networking, building relationships, and negotiating partnerships. The experience has broadened my horizons and given me a deeper appreciation for the power of collaboration and leveraging collective expertise.

Through these various changes, my role as Director of Logistics has evolved, and so have I. I have learned the importance of adaptability, embracing technology, and cultivating professional relationships. These experiences have highlighted the potential for growth and transformation that exist within every challenge and change. As I reflect on the year thus far, I am grateful for the opportunities these changes have brought and the personal and professional development they have afforded me.

Written BY:

David Ngo -

Director of Operations

DAVID NGO

I wanted to share my personal assessment of my journey so far. Serving as the Director of Operations for our small business government/federal contracting has been both challenging and immensely rewarding, and I am proud of what our team has accomplished together. My journey of self-assessment involves recognizing my strengths and weaknesses while still acknowledging areas for growth.

One of the key highlights of the past months has been our success in integrating new team members. Their contributions have been invaluable, bringing fresh perspectives and diverse skills that have enhanced our operations. Along with the HR team, we ensured that their transition was smooth and that they felt welcomed and supported. This has been a collaborative effort, and I am truly grateful for the teamwork and camaraderie displayed.

Operationally, we have made significant progress in streamlining our workflows and enhancing our communication channels. Looking ahead, we aim to capitalize on the momentum we've built. Prioritizing our customers' needs, we will continue to refine our processes and invest in delivering the best customer service to all our contracts. Strategy meetings this year are underway to identify new opportunities for growth and expansion. Furthermore, we are dedicated to fostering a culture of transparency and accountability, ensuring that every team member is aligned with our Mission and Vision Statement.

Kelly Byerley -
Accounting Technician

Kelly Byerley

My mid-year self-assessment happens to coincide with my one-year DP&R anniversary! I started with DP&R on May 15, 2023, and it has flown by! It’s been a year of learning and growing and trial and error. I feel confident in saying that I am now comfortable with all my accounting duties. I learned a lot about myself and my ability to problem solve and make things more efficient. I’m always looking for a better, faster, easier way to get tasks accomplished. I love to find ways to make something less manual and more automated, if possible. I was able to clean up our AR and get it looking the best it has since I started. I also added a few automated labor journals for each pay period, instead of manual entries. I overhauled some payroll and bank entries that were not utilizing accurate numbers. I spent many hours teaching myself what reports to utilize to obtain numbers for reconciliations, journal entries and AP expenses. I’ve educated myself on the ins and outs of indirect vs. direct costs, and overhead/general and administrative/facilities/fringe expenses.

I am happy with the progress made in accounting thus far and look forward to learning and growing even more as I continue my journey at DP&R. I hope to work with our CPA and gain a better understanding of the month end and year end close processes.

WRITTEN BY:

Maggi Devoto -
Administrative Assistant

MAGGI DEVOTO

In his work How We Think, John Dewey opines, “We do not learn from experience…we learn from reflecting on experience.” With the addition of the word “reflecting”, the meaning of the phrase is altered. To learn and change, it is simply not enough to experience something. We must reflect upon the experience and assess how it has impacted our life and could impact our future. To self-reflect means to “take the time to think about, meditate on, evaluate, and give serious thought to your behaviors, thoughts, attitudes, motivations, and desires”.

For each of us, self-reflection can be achieved in a multitude of ways. I personally find turning to my faith to be the best way to self-reflect. Life can throw many challenges our way, and I always take comfort in knowing where my self-worth and value truly come from – God. He is the source of my strength and discernment. So, for me to be able to recognize the changes I need to make in my life to better serve my family and my community, I must first seek God’s wisdom and counsel. He is always faithful to not only hear my concerns but to provide a path to understanding. Sometimes the path is not always clearly laid out or without bumps, but eventually I get there. And often times the path is not what I would have imagined it to be.

As we approach midyear – I cannot believe how quickly time passes! – and my family is in the middle of a PCS (military move), I have found myself doing some serious self-reflecting and evaluating. What will I do differently in this new place? How will I make a difference? When will I feel settled and established in our new community? Will my kids find a place to fit in at their new school and youth group? Few things provide better conditions for self-reflection than moving to a new state, a new city, a new community, a new church, a new school, a new house. Starting over.

I also find myself wondering how half the year is already gone – it seems I was just making those New Year’s resolutions I wrote about in the last newsletter. When we think back on our New Year’s resolutions, we can feel one of two things: Pride that we have made progress in achieving them or disappoint in knowing that our dreams clashed with reality and zero to little progress has been made. Hopefully we use that potential disappoint to fuel a desire to finish the second half of the year stronger.

My hope is that I will be a better neighbor and friend. That I will learn and grow personally and professionally like never before. As my kids get older, I find that I have more time to dig a little deeper into myself and reflect on what really matters to me, which inevitably helps me serve my family and community better. So, I am thankful to God for the change and challenge he allows in my life. I hope to serve him well by serving others. I encourage each of us to take the time to self-reflect and use whatever discoveries we make for the betterment of ourselves, which will ultimately lead to better relationships within our families and communities.

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