CRANE, Ind. –
A Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane Division (NSWC Crane) computer scientist was recognized as Employee of the Year by CAREERS & the disABLED Magazine for 2021. Award-winner Aimee Flynn has worked at NSWC Crane for a decade this fall.
CAREERS & the disABLED Magazine was established in 1986, and as stated on their website, they are the nation’s first and only career-guidance and recruitment magazine for people with disabilities who are at undergraduate, graduate, or professional levels.
Flynn says this award is meaningful to her.
“I am honored that my supervisors and co-workers think enough of me to nominate me for this award. It’s a great feeling to be recognized. I don’t feel like I need to be awarded, I just do what I do. I am very appreciative.”
Throughout her career at NSWC Crane, Flynn has worked in several roles.
“I have worked in such things as Database Design and Database Management, Configuration Management, GUI Development and SharePoint Development, and COR Support. I am also currently working on a Master’s Degree in Informatics/Data Science.”
Flynn was born with Cerebral Palsy, which affects her movement and speech, and at the age of nine, was diagnosed with Juvenile Diabetes. She currently uses a wheelchair and voice communicator.
“When I started in school, the professionals said I would have to be home schooled, but we said no. I had been already tested and the tests indicated that I had academic potential, so I deserved a chance like everyone else. I have tried to make good on that chance ever since. In 1989, I graduated from high school. I went on to Ball State, graduating in 1994 with a BA in General Studies.”
Flynn says it had been suggested to pursue a Computer Science degree after graduating.
“Although returning to school wasn't in my plans, I committed to getting the Computer Science degree so I could obtain my goal. In 2003, I graduated from IU with a BA in Computer Science. I wish I could say that I found a job in a reasonable timeframe - but I cannot, it took ten years.”
Flynn says being in a wheelchair is one thing, but people make assumptions when you have difficulty speaking.
“So during those years trying to find someone who would give me an opportunity to prove that I was capable was very frustrating and trying, but I did not give up. I stayed the course and kept on fighting.”
She then started working at NSWC Crane.
“It’s a good place to be, a lot of good people at Crane,” says Flynn. “I am honored to be working for my country, for the Navy, Marines, and the Army. Whatever they need, I am here, along with my co-workers, to help provide it.”
She says there are a few things that motivate her.
“The Lord has blessed me with many opportunities and a mind; any good I have done, any successes that I have had, any obstacles I have overcame I have done for His glory. I am also motivated because I want to be a productive person, and I think that a person should do all they are able to do. My motto is ‘Do it’.”
Flynn says being recognized shows people with disabilities can serve the mission.
“This award matters to me because it proves that people with disabilities can be productive; they can contribute and complete; and they deserve to be given a chance. To Crane and to my teammates, I hope it shows that I will do what it takes to get the job done, and I’ll have their backs no matter what.”
About NSWC Crane
NSWC Crane is a naval laboratory and a field activity of Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) with mission areas in Expeditionary Warfare, Strategic Missions and Electronic Warfare. The warfare center is responsible for multi-domain, multi- spectral, full life cycle support of technologies and systems enhancing capability to today's Warfighter.
Join Our Team! NAVSEA employs a diverse, highly trained, educated, and skilled workforce - from students and entry level employees to experienced professionals and individuals with disabilities. We support today's sophisticated Navy and Marine Corps ships, aircraft, weapon systems and computer systems. We are continuously looking for engineers, scientists, and other STEM professionals, as well as talented business, finance, logistics and other support experts to ensure the U.S. Navy can protect and defend America. Please connect with NSWC Crane Recruiting at this site - https://navsea.recsolu.com/external/form/jmR6cUhZKZ_qD5QUqyMk8w or email us at crane_recruiting@navy.mil