PANAMA CITY, Fla. –
Dave Hawes, NSWC Panama City Division Information Technology Division head and Activity Command Information officer, is responsible for the operation, maintenance, compliance, planning, leadership and information technology governance for the command.
He uses a wealth of technical expertise to impact this Navy lab. He has served on active duty as a Navy sailor, has supported network infrastructures as a defense contractor and program manager, and served as an information system security manager to name a few roles. He has also held many leadership roles as he developed his team to support the warfighter.
“Supporting the NSWC PCD research, development, testing and evaluation scientists and engineers with the best technology is the main goal of my position,” said Hawes. “In doing this, I know they are able to give the sailors in the fleet the systems and equipment needed to succeed.”
Yet, the key to his success started long before his 35 years of supporting the Navy.
Hawes is a proud elder in the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians in Peshawbestown, Mich., a reservation on more than 627 acres of land and was originally founded as a mission.
“It’s unique to be a part of a Native American tribe. Growing up in Michigan, I attended several events and Powwows,” said Hawes. “As I got older and left Michigan for the Navy, the tribe sent its members a monthly newspaper that helped me stay connected to the tribe and my family who participated in these events.”
Their sense of community has left an indelible mark on Hawes.
“My grandmother was one of the longest living members of our tribe and the way they supported our elders was wonderful,” said Hawes. “The tribe paid for a complete bathroom renovation and ensured was also handicap accessible. [They’ve] built several facilities to assist tribal members with housing, elderly care and other services including public safety and health services.”
The connection and the culture continues to be a sense of pride for him.
“When I was younger, I didn’t realize what being part of the tribe meant. As I have grown older, I have researched more to learn more about the culture and history,” said Hawes. “I now really appreciate being a part of the tribe and learning about the history. This year, I turned 55 and have become a tribal elder. I will be going to the reservation next summer and I am very excited for the trip and look forward to sending time there.”