Pantex Proud: Summer Kelly
When Occupational Nursing Specialist Summer Kelly joined the Pantex team in October, she brought with her over two decades of healthcare experience and a deep commitment to service.
In the aftermath of 9/11, while communities grappled with loss and trauma, Kelly served by working at the Oklahoma Blood Institute. The healthcare community’s work during this time exemplified the true meaning of mission delivery and answering the call to serve without hesitation.
“I witnessed the raw emotion of society and the vast amount of people who lined up wanting to donate blood no matter how long the donation lines were.”
Nearly two decades later, she served as an emergency room and intensive care nurse during the COVID-19 pandemic, giving vital support to her patients. As healthcare systems strained and the world faced unprecedented challenges, the healthcare teams were tasked with remaining calm and continuing to deliver care under extraordinary conditions.
“During that time, hospital personnel became the only family patients had due to the circumstances.”
Kelly’s dedication extends beyond her professional duties to community engagement. Her family has resided in White Deer for 20 years, during which she has also been involved with emergency medical services and employed by White Deer Independent School District.
Having worked on the front lines during two of the most defining public health crises of our time, she answered the call to serve with courage, compassion, and unwavering dedication. Kelly’s dedication is evident in her journey to Pantex; she applied 36 times before securing her current role in the medical department. She values the camaraderie within her team and considers her acceptance into the department her proudest professional moment.
Why is Pantex’s mission important to you?
The Pantex mission is important to me because of the long history it has in regards to national security.
Why is teamwork important?
Being able to work as a team and collaborate betters a company as a whole and makes for an improved working environment. As a medical professional, being able to work as a team and delegate tasks results in the best outcome for the patient.
Do you volunteer or remain actively engaged in the community? How so?
I have been a part of the White Deer City Council since 2017. I was very honored to be voted into the council at the election in May. I take pride in being tasked with community concerns and helping address situations in the best interest of the people the committee represents.
What advice would you give to a new employee?
The advice I would give to an applicant or a new hire employee is be persistent, don’t give up, and accept any critiques and criticism as part of the stepping stones for your job and self-improvement.