A civilian employee from the 21st Century Sailor Office was honored by the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations at a Pentagon ceremony Dec. 11.

Thomas Albert, serving as the N170 Transition Assistance Program (TAPS) manager, was named runner-up for the 2015 OPNAV Junior Civilian of the Year.

"At this level among the competition, it's an honor and a privilege to receive this award," said Albert. "I'm very humbled to receive it, but it's only capable through the efforts of our whole team as we work together to help bring the 21st Century Sailor Office to the forefront to help Sailors."

Albert was recognized for implementing the Veterans Opportunity to Work (VOW) to Hire Hero's Act of 2011, and the President's Veteran Employment Initiative mandates. The mandates led to the development of the career readiness standards, Transition GPS (Goal, Plans, and Success) curriculum and the TAPS Military Life Cycle.

Albert's contributions helped transform the Navy's ability to gather personnel data. He recognized gaps in the Navy's capability to monitor, track and report VOW compliances which led to a modification of the Career Information Management System and Navy Standard Integrated Personnel System.

Additionally, he designed and implemented the TAPS Military Life Cycle in the Navy career development process further preparing Sailors to transition to civilian life. Albert's work has helped shape the Navy's personnel system in addition to providing aid to Sailors during critical transition points in their careers, say Navy leaders.

"Mr. Albert's efforts are a testimony to the support that the Navy provides our Sailors and families," said Rear Adm. Ann Burkhardt, director, 21st Century Sailor Office. "His work not only benefits Sailors while in the Navy, but also during transitional periods. He is well deserving of this award, and his contributions epitomize Navy values."

Albert retired from the Navy, as a master chief petty officer (E-9) with 30 years of service, before joining the N170 team. He is referred to by colleagues as the "Mayor or Millington" for his positive character and involvement in the community.



For more news from Chief of Naval Personnel, visit www.navy.mil/.