Pantex Proud: Caitlin Duke
Thousands of dedicated Pantex citizens like Caitlin Duke work every day to support the Pantex mission. Take three minutes to learn about who she is, what she does, and why she is proud to be a Pantexan.
For Caitlin Duke, it all started with MySpace. Although her fascination with computers and technology started at an earlier age, her initial introduction into the world of information technology began when she coded her peers’ layouts on the online millennial mecca. She built onto those basic coding skills through her job at a large electronics retail store, developing into more areas of IT and finding an interest in troubleshooting.
“After moving from that first job, I tried a few other things,” Duke said. “Nothing seemed to satisfy my brain like IT does, and so I made the switch back to IT and have stuck with it since.”
Duke has been at Pantex for two years as a field support technician under Information Technology Service Management. She supports all IT issues at the Pantex Amarillo Campus (PAC), a service that also stands as her proudest accomplishment.
“We established and initiated full-time IT support at the PAC,” she said. “We proactively addressed any potential issues and ensured IT infrastructure was deployed and operating before launch day. I'm genuinely proud to say that the opening of the PAC has been a resounding success. I am glad I was chosen to be a part of making it happen.”
In her role, Duke meets a lot of people. While she loves what she does and is proud to serve the mission, there’s one thing she loves even more.
“My coworkers,” she said. “The people are what make Pantex special. I have worked in many environments, with various companies and roles. I can honestly say that Pantex is a cut above the rest. Anyone who gets a chance to be out here is lucky to be a part of this group of people and the mission we support.”
As a longtime Texas Panhandle resident, Duke understands the importance of Pantex to the nation, region, and community. She’s proud to serve her fellow Pantexans, and she exemplifies that pride through her daily work.
“Having pride in my role is important to me because I know how my work affects those around me,” Duke said. “Those in need of IT support rely on me to be efficient in my job so they can get back to doing theirs. I try to make them feel as comfortable as possible. It is not uncommon that people are hesitant to ask for IT-related help. I strive to change that and make their experience positive.”
Why is being open to learn from others critical for mission success?
By being open to learn from each other’s different experiences, opinions, and knowledge, we will get through any obstacle or achieve any goal. It’s critical we share and preserve knowledge from one another to continue being successful in our mission.
What advice would you give to a new employee?
Network as much as possible. I challenge everyone to build relationships with others outside of your bubble. It will open so many doors.
Who in your life has inspired you the most and why?
My parents. They both have an incredible work ethic and I’m fortunate to have them. They have done their best to give back to the community through coaching, running women’s groups, making donations, being involved in their unions, serving in the U.S. Marine Corps, and being leaders in the workplace. I strive every day to make them proud in everything I do, and try to live up to their legacies.