With the current COVID-19 situation we’re taking this month’s installment of BTS Behind the Scenes to feature Senior Analyst Chasity Thompson. As an experienced analyst Chasity is not only supporting the intelligence mission but also the mission at home (kids, family, husband, garden, etc). We asked Chasity how she’s rolling with the changes and the perspective she takes about keeping the mission moving on every front.

How has the COVID-19 situation impacted you and your family?

With my husband serving as a government employee and having my two children at home all at the same it has certainly been a significant change! Our schedule is different and we’re all adapting to making it work. It’s been hard to say the least. Yet with my family as my top priority and the need for the mission to continue I am definitely bringing back my military mentality. For me it’s about knowing how to multi-task and switch back and forth between helping my children, doing my focused work, and supporting my husband as well in his work. The environment change really requires a significant shift in mentality.

How do you think about your priorities for day-to-day mission support?

To me, it all comes down to staying in touch with the customer. We need to be able to keep them informed and provide them with what they need, especially for the environment that we’re in. With everything that’s happening, we need to be looking out for those servicemembers, contractors, and civilians who are on the front lines. No matter the circumstances, we still need to get them what they need, and the way BTS is organized, we’re able to do just that. It means being flexible whether we’re in that environment or outside of it. The mission goes on.

Any tips or advice to others about making this work?

I would encourage them to keep an open mind and be flexible. Just know that when things swing out of the norm that sometimes those changes can be really good. Adapt to that change and be willing to adjust. Whether you have family at home with you or not, adapt and overcome. Just like you might have done in previous roles. And of course, stay connected. Whether family, friends, or coworkers, make sure you’re connected and engaged with your support system(s).

What other changes have you experienced during this crisis?

For one thing I’m working much more on my gardening. I’m trying to add new things to my garden and even get the kids involved. We’re eating more vegetables and learning how to deal with grub worms (I don’t like insects). They say you can take the girl out of the country, but you can’t take the country out of the girl. I’m a true North Carolinian by heart so this is certainly true for me.

I’m also trying to learn more about gymnastics. That’s what my daughter is into now so I’m hoping to get her moved up to a new level soon. That has also inspired me to start working out as a stress reliever. So those are some positives.

How has BTS helped you adapt overall?

BTs has been a lifesaver. With a wide community of career fields, I’ve been able to tap into new areas, and being a small company, the BTS team has really been like another immediate family. I used to be with a bigger company where we were always spread out and you really notice when you have (and don’t have) those solid relational connections. I’m a big family-oriented person so my “work family” at BTS has really meant a lot to me.

Tags: Chasity Thompson, COVID-19