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.
Most don’t notice this spot on Bear Creek Road, but it is one Jordan knows all too well from his time doing patrols.
Although others often ask him to step into the spotlight, Jordan E. doesn’t prefer to be center stage when it comes to his work. After 21 years at Y-12, he said he’s found a perfect spot for this era of his career.
Jordan is a security police officer currently serving as the Y-12 chief steward for International Guards Union of America (IGUA) Local 3, where he helps to communicate between management and the union members.
Before coming to Y-12, Jordan spent 5 years as a military police officer in the Army. When he took a job at Y-12, he found the mission fit his values.
“I was impressed by the true believers in the mission working here,” Jordan said. “People sacrifice their time to ensure necessities are met and put in extra time to make sure things are running smoothly. There is a level of outside dedication to the inside mission.”
Several moments in time at Y-12 made Jordan one of those true believers. His memories on-site include an 18-year-stretch working in the Bearcat subgroup, supporting protected area patrols, and working access control at the posts, but after all that time, his work behind the scenes has struck a chord that just feels right.
Being available for the membership is fulfilling work, and every day holds a new challenge, which I always welcome,” Jordan said.
What work advice would you offer someone who is new to Y-12?
Take advantage of whatever programs Y-12 provides and don’t get sucked in to just your job. Treat this place like an extended family.
Are you doing what you envisioned as a young adult? If so, describe how you got here.
No, I thought I would be a psychologist. I have an empathetic leaning and thought that was what I would do, but I use that skill in what I do now. I feel it is a neglected skill that I try to bring to every interaction. The ability to read another person’s needs and wants makes the conversation drastically different, and when the person feels heard they’re receptive to alternatives.
Share a lesson learned from a leader in your past. Why was this a good (or bad) lesson?
I had a company commander in the Army, Lieutenant Colonel Mark Weber, who was a fresh captain at the time and showed me what leading with humanity can look like. He adhered to policy and procedures of course, but he did it with heart. Other great leaders that I’ve worked with have said, “Just do what’s right, every time,” and that has impacted me greatly. It may seem simple to say, but sometimes things are “in the gray,” and the correct choice isn’t always apparent. If you use that compass [to lead with humanity], though, you’ll always sleep well at night.
What’s your favorite activity outside of work and why?
I enjoy hiking and going to the gym, but volunteering is my favorite. I have volunteered with the American Red Cross Disaster Action Team, Salvation Army, and Young-Williams Animal Center, to name a few, but I just love helping others in general, whether that looks like helping a neighbor, a friend, or a community member in need. It’s something that I do at work, as well as with United Way on a smaller scale. Volunteering has led me to my current role of Y-12 chief steward, because to me it is a service to the members, and loving your job is as good as life can be. At least, before retirement (lol).