Inspired by President John F. Kennedy and the desire to make a difference in society, a generation of Americans has made the federal government their career. Commonly known as the Baby Boomers, the post-World War II generation makes up about 25 percent of today's federal workforce. Federal News Radio introduces a new ongoing series, Federal Voices. We will bring you the stories of long-time federal employees who began their careers when smoking in the office was common, where every desk had a typewriter and when no one was addicted to a Blackberry.

Navy's Ken Barrett pushes for diversity, work-life balance

Navy Capt. Ken Barrett said diversity is an issue "people get hung up on," but he's never looked at it as meeting quotas. Barrett became the diversity director of the Navy in 2006. He is retiring after 28 years of military service.

1

GAO's Rich Stana reflects on a career he never anticipated

Former Government Accountability Office Director of Homeland Security and Justice Issues Rich Stana never aspired to public service. As a newly-minted business school graduate, he interviewed for jobs at banks and companies, but didn't find them appealing. Then his dean suggested applying to GAO, where he could apply his business knowledge to auditing government programs. Stana never looked back. He retired in December after 35 years.

Comment

Hubert Sparks reflects on four decades of auditing agencies

Appalachian Regional Commission Inspector General Hubert Sparks has tried to retire twice, but keeps coming back to government. After 43 years, this will be his last, Sparks said.

Comment

Carolyn Davis takes lessons from federal career into new one

Davis retired after 42 years in government. She said she's tried to live by a few basic principles, get the job done, get it done right and get it done on time.

Comment

Ron Martin reflects on career

A new ongoing series by Federal News Radio tells the stories of long-time federal employees.

Comment