Mandy Jo Allen, MS, serves as a supervisory training specialist at the U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command’s Officer Leader Development Branch. Joining in 2023, her work has directly contributed to the evolution of military operational doctrine. Her responsibilities include collaborating with a team to oversee 35 courses across two schools, covering 11 military specialties, ranging from electronic emissions to allied trades and automotive maintenance. Her commitment to curriculum development and instruction has also been vital in addressing training gaps, especially during periods of heightened enlistment demands within the Army.
Reflecting on her path, Ms. Allen’s extensive military experience began in 1999 when she enlisted as a petroleum laboratory specialist in the United States Army. She later served as an S-3 battalion operations/training non-commissioned officer with the 1st Theater Sustainment Command from 2007 to 2010 and as an advanced individual training platoon sergeant at the U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command from 2010 to 2012.
Ms. Allen went on to become an instructor and writer at the Army Logistics University from 2012 to 2014 and a petroleum laboratory supervisor at the Defense Logistics Agency, Energy, from 2014 to 2017. From 2017 to 2020, she served as a training developer at the U.S. Army Combined Arms Support Command. She then worked as an instructional designer at Signature Consultants from 2020 to 2021 and as an instructional systems designer with All Native Group, the Federal Services Division of Ho-Chunk Inc., from 2021 to 2023.
Ms. Allen’s academic achievements include an Associate of Science in public health education and Promotion from American Military University in 2015, a Bachelor of Science in environmental science from American Military University in 2019, and a Master of Science in instructional design, development & evaluation from Syracuse University School of Education in 2021. She has also remained active with the Syracuse University Alumni Association.
Additionally, Ms. Allen holds several certifications, including advanced body-worn cameras: video technology and human perception, foundations of accessible e-learning, instructional design: needs analysis, creating and deploying microlearning, CPR/AED/first aid, certified logistics technician, certified logistics associate, and certified petroleum professional level v.
In recognition of her significant contributions to the field, Ms. Allen has received numerous accolades, including the American Petroleum Institute’s Best Fixed Facility Award for the Petroleum Laboratory Category from the Army Petroleum Center in 2017, the Distinguished Instructor Award from the United States Army Logistics University in 2013, and the Meritorious Service Medal from the Defense Logistics Agency, Energy. She attributes her success to her strong work ethic, modest beginnings, and military service, which continue to fuel her drive. She also credits the unwavering support of her husband, who serves as her greatest advocate and confidant.
Beyond her professional responsibilities, Ms. Allen is committed to civic service, volunteering with organizations such as the Special Olympics and local senior homes. In her free time, she enjoys reading and participating in outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and paddleboarding. Looking ahead, she plans to pursue a doctorate, which she believes will pave the way for her aspiration to teach in the future.