Elbit Systems of America’s Mission Statement is the guiding foundation for the products and services we deliver. COVID-19 has led some of us to look at our mission with a new perspective, considering how we can best fulfill it each day, working onsite or remotely.

We spoke with four employees in different roles and departments, and asked how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected their perception of Elbit America’s Mission. Some takeaways from those conversations follow.

How has your understanding of Elbit America’s Mission Statement changed since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic?

A common theme among many Elbit America employees is that the pandemic has allowed the mission to become even more solidified in their minds.

Ashley Dunn, Engineering Program Support Manager in Fort Worth Operations, stated that “war and the need for protection don’t stop,” during a global health crisis. The world continues to move on, even if we are social distancing, working remotely, or spending every day in a mask. The mission of our armed forces does not stop either.

As Elbit America employees, we continue to push forward and save lives and the Mission Statement seemingly becomes even more meaningful, Ashley said.

Bob Cocks, Business Development Manager at Real-Time Laboratories in Boca Raton, Fla. Is part of a group of employees that has continued to work in the plant since the beginning of the pandemic.

“I feel that, as a team, we are stronger than ever. Our essential employees are making sacrifices and adjustments to their lives in order for us to stay committed to our mission, and continue to support our customers.”

Mark Provost, Engineering Director at our San Antonio Operations said, “The mission hasn’t changed. It is how we meet the mission that has changed.”

Mark’s role working with engineers has become more challenging with the remote work environment, since engineering is highly collaborative and every person plays a critical role. Although, Mark says, about half of the engineering team in San Antonio can be found in the office on any given day.  All Elbit America employees have been put in a unique position, whether they are working remotely or not, and many have been on the frontlines, continuing to serve our customers.

How can you continue to live out our Mission daily as we phase back into normal life?

As Andra Green, E/E Assembler in Fort Worth stated, “We cannot let our guard down. We must continue to stay focused and accept the things we cannot change. Although, we cannot foresee exactly what the ‘new normal’ will look like, it is likely true that the world will look very different for a significant amount of time. “Social distancing, masks, and remote work will be a part of our lives for the foreseeable future. We must continue to stay connected, take care of one another and remain vigilant. Just because the world around us has changed, the truth of our mission has not,” said Andra.

All in all, the consensus seems to be that Elbit America employees remain committed to providing innovative solutions that protect and save lives, no matter the circumstances. We will stand together as One Elbit Family. 

Written by Taylor Bargfrede, Elbit Systems of America Communications Intern, Summer 2020.