Thousands of dedicated Pantex citizens like Misty Churchwell 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.
It’s been said that the only consistent thing in life is change. But for Misty Churchwell, the stability at Pantex has been a constant through her adult life.
“All my major milestones have taken place while working here; marriage, kids, career, etc.,” Churchwell said. “The people I have met and the relationships I have established have had a lot to do with shaping me into the person I am now. I’ve grown so much during my tenure here.”
Churchwell has worked at Pantex for 15 years, starting as a quality assurance technician before becoming a process engineering technical specialist and ultimately an environmental scientist.
In her current role, she develops National Environmental Policy Act reviews for site projects by coordinating with people throughout the plant to identify environmental controls.
“Not only does teamwork allow you to rely on others to ensure you put forth quality work, it also allows you to develop relationships,” she said. “By developing those relationships, you become accountable to yourself and those around you. Plus, the people are always who you show up for.”
Churchwell believes pride in the workplace, continuous improvement, and a growth mindset contribute to mission success.
“There is always more to learn and by being open to that, you have the chance to improve things both for yourself and others,” she said. “If you don’t make efforts to learn, you grow stagnant. There is so much opportunity to grow and each person can choose the path that is right for them. But even while choosing different paths, we still get to stay connected.”
A budding career, flowering relationships, and a blooming future are not the only things Churchwell cultivates.
“I love to garden,” Churchwell said. “I find it very relaxing and rewarding, and I’m pretty good at it.”
Why is it important we keep a questioning attitude?
Technology changes, goals change, people bring different experiences and knowledge that may not have been available when the status quo was developed. Good enough can always be better. By questioning things, you learn and improve.
What advice would you give to a new employee?
Just slow down; Pantex is different. It’s intimidating to get started out here and in each new position/organization you choose to be a part of. Your previous experience really is relevant, you just have to get used to all the unique processes out here. It’ll come with time. And, also, go on plant site when you can if that is not part of your normal job. That’s where the magic happens. Make a point to learn why you are here.
What is one thing your coworkers would be surprised to know about you?
When I was 19, I went swimming in the middle of the Bermuda Triangle while on a summer school at sea trip. It was fun and exciting then, but I look back now and think... if that was my kid! Oh my gosh!