Major General Lorna Mahlock, the Deputy Director for Combat Support at the National Security Agency (NSA), recently sat down with Dave to discuss her remarkable career leading up to her current role at one of the most prestigious security agencies in the world. Born in Kingston, Jamaica, Lorna immigrated to Brooklyn, New York at a young age and eventually found her calling in the United States Marine Corps.
Lorna began her journey in the military as a field radio operator, and she describes this experience as eye-opening. Being part of the Marine Corps not only provided her with valuable skills and knowledge but also opened doors for her career advancement. She quickly moved up the ranks, showcasing her dedication and passion for the work she was doing.
After years of hard work and determination, Lorna found herself working at the Pentagon for the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. This was a significant milestone in her career, as it allowed her to use her expertise to contribute to the highest levels of national security decision-making. Her time at the Pentagon further solidified her commitment to serving her country and protecting its interests.
Throughout her career, Lorna has always been open to new opportunities and challenges. She understood the importance of broadening her horizons and gaining diverse experiences. This mindset led her to take on different roles and assignments, all of which added depth and breadth to her skill set. It was this willingness to explore various paths that eventually brought her to her current position at the NSA.
One of the key pieces of wisdom that Lorna shared during her conversation with Dave was her concept of “ladders.” She explained that she often thinks about ladders in terms of creating bridges and finding ways over obstacles. Lorna believes that these ladders can be not only useful for individuals but also for entire organizations. By building these bridges, she believes that anyone can not only advance in their own career but also help others along the way.
Lorna’s dedication to her work and her passion for creating opportunities for herself and others are truly inspiring. Her story serves as a reminder that with hard work, determination, and a willingness to take risks, anyone can achieve great success in their chosen field. Lorna’s journey from a field radio operator to a high-ranking official at the NSA is a testament to the power of persistence and perseverance.
We extend our thanks to Lorna for sharing her story with us and for her continued dedication to serving and protecting our country. Her leadership and commitment to excellence are an inspiration to all who aspire to make a difference in the world of national security. We look forward to seeing what the future holds for Major General Lorna Mahlock as she continues to build bridges and create opportunities for herself and others.