The Y‑12er spotlight shines on one of our own. It takes all Y‑12 employees to make the mission happen successfully and safely. All views and opinions are the employee’s own and do not necessarily reflect those of CNS.
Jamie U. learned how to be a team player on the U.S. Military Academy West Point basketball court, but at Y-12, he runs point for Transformation and Technology in Safeguards, Security, and Emergency Services.
“I learned from my time playing basketball to rely on teammates,” said Jamie, who played 106 games over 4 seasons for the Black Knights, averaging 5.5 points a game before embarking on a 21-year career in the Army. “I can’t do it solo; each person brings a unique perspective to the team.”
Reaching mission success doesn’t happen without leadership and collaboration, which are two things Jamie has seen a clear connection between in his role.
“Chris Burns became my boss 2 years ago, and he is a technology‑focused individual,” Jamie said. “The challenges he gives us and our work finding solutions is the most rewarding and fun piece of my job.”
Jamie approaches each interaction with mantras from Major General Pat Work in mind. Jamie worked for him as a major from 2012 through 2013 at Fort Campbell in Kentucky. Pat was the battalion commander for 2 years in the 3-187 Infantry, and Jamie was his operations officer for a year before transitioning to be his battalion executive officer.
“He made me the professional that I am today during a time when I needed it,” Jamie said. “He taught me planning and critical thinking and challenged me to make me stronger in the end. Pat gave us a simple sequence to make decisions: 1. Do what’s right. 2. Do what the boss wants. 3. Then do what you want, in that order. I still use it professionally and personally.”
When Jamie was asked for closing comments, he had one person he wanted to recognize: his wife of 27 years, Amy.
“My wife has been my coach and confidante through 5 combat tours, 11 moves, and 21 years in the Army. I truly would not be where I am without her,” he said.
What has surprised you during your time at Y-12?
After 21 years of service in the military, I wasn’t sure how I would adjust transitioning from the Army to the Department of Energy, but I have been blessed to adjust well, thanks to the people here. At Y‑12, we are all like-minded, mission-focused team players who want to get to “yes” more than “no.”
What is one thing your coworkers may be surprised to know about you?
I was the leading scorer for Army against Duke at Cameron Indoor in 1996. I got into some trouble talking trash to Trajan Landon (The Alaskan Assassin), and I’d rather not disclose the final score of the game. Needless to say, we did not win.
What’s your top bucket list item and why?
Playing the Old Course at St. Andrews. To play at a place of such historical significance and where legends have played would be amazing. Playing golf and competing is one way I can still challenge and test myself against others.
Are you doing what you envisioned as a young adult? If so, describe how you got here.
Yes. I wanted to be involved in security post-Army. My background was security operations, and I knew the state of the world wasn’t going to change to the point that security would no longer be needed. Although I didn’t expect to be working on securing special nuclear materials, security is security, and I am super happy to be here.