At AnaVation, we believe meaningful careers are built through trust, mentorship, continuous learning, and growth opportunities. The AnaVator Spotlight series recognizes our employees by sharing their stories and celebrating how we support one another in bringing our mission and values to life. This month, we are excited to feature Connor, Staff Program Control Analyst, highlighting his early-career journey and impact at AnaVation.
Since joining in 2022, AnaVation was Connor’s first full-time opportunity after graduating, and stepping into the government contracting space presented a learning curve. While the transition was challenging at first, what stood out early was the strong support surrounding him to help him succeed. With access to AnaVation-provided resources and guidance from his teammates, Connor was able to steadily build confidence in his role.
Throughout the years, Connor strengthened his skills and expertise in financial reporting, cost accounting, and budgeting. He credits much of that growth to the mentorship he received and the learning tools available to him. “With wonderful mentors, such as Aimee D and Tyler H, and access to our online Unanet University training portal, I was able to gradually build up my skills,” Connor said. The Unanet University training portal was especially valuable early in his career, helping him learn the fundamentals of the platform and better understand his responsibilities. He also emphasized the value of hands-on experience, noting that “sometimes the best way to learn is to just jump right in.” Reflecting on his progress over the past three years, he shared that his skills have “improved tremendously,” while maintaining a mindset focused on continuous growth.
Connor describes AnaVation’s culture as “collaborative, values-driven, and supportive,” emphasizing the importance of open communication, integrity in decision-making, and a workplace where employees feel empowered to grow and do their best work. These qualities are reflected in the way teams work together across the organization. Furthermore, Connor has felt consistently supported by his Accounting and Finance teammates as well as Program Managers, Account Leads, and Portfolio Directors. “Everyone I collaborate with shares unique insights,” he explained, noting that each AnaVator helps him enhance his work and approach. A significant influence in Connor’s career has been his mentor and Accounting & Finance team lead, Aimee D. He describes her as a “jack-of-all-trades whose depth of knowledge is remarkable,” and adds that she is “a kind soul and a friend to all.” Her leadership has a lasting impact and sets a great example. Connor aspires to model her qualities as he continues in his career.
When asked what has kept him at AnaVation, Connor points to the trust and friendships he has built over time, along with the company’s strong emphasis on work-life balance and genuine care for employees. For Connor, the most rewarding aspect of his role is the camaraderie he experiences daily, and the trust placed in him as a reliable resource. “It’s a wholesome feeling to be a trusted source when it comes to supporting our customers, internally and externally,” Connor shared.
Outside of work, Connor likes staying active and engaged. He is an avid gymgoer and enjoys “anything that puts his body at work,” including hiking, yard work, and spending time with his dog. Sports are another major passion. He plays golf, pickup basketball, baseball, and was a former member of AnaVation’s softball team. As an avid sports fan, he looks forward to events like the Masters golf tournament, March Madness, and NFL/MLB playoffs each year. He is also fond of building LEGO sets and appreciates the process of seeing everything come together, with his favorite build to date being a 1961 Chevrolet Corvette. A fun fact about Connor is that he has a keen memory and is known for his love for movies and television, often incorporating quotes into everyday conversations; a habit he admits may be “a little corny,” but one he finds fun! On the weekends, Connor values spending time with friends and family, whether that’s going out to dinner, grabbing drinks, watching sports, playing golf, or simply hanging out at the house!
From navigating a new industry to becoming a confident and trusted contributor, Connor’s journey highlights what makes AnaVation a great place to work. His experience underscores AnaVation’s ongoing commitment to empowering employees, fostering a culture where individuals feel supported every step of the way, and providing opportunities for professional development, which enables employees to grow with purpose and achieve long-term success.
