A refrigerator, a manhole cover, and a cougar—all things that weigh about 200 pounds.
It’s also the amount of weight that Shana Millspaugh lifted over her head to qualify for the World Championship in Weightlifting and Masters Nationals. The force behind Shana’s herculean strength is her craving to be the best. It’s a passion that also extends to her roles as a military wife, mom of four, and in her work at Booz Allen, where she is the executive administrator for the Space Security and Defense Program (SSDP).
When it comes to client work, it’s not surprising that Shana excels under extreme circumstances, just as she does in competitive weightlifting. Shana, who is based out of Colorado Springs, works behind the scenes providing the logistics her client needs to brief high-ranking individuals. Whether it’s preparing for meetings with Fortune 500 industry leaders or the White House, Shana’s resourcefulness and champion’s heart knows no bounds.
As an athlete, Shana also knows you must celebrate wins and cope with losses.
“I hate failing—it’s my biggest fear. But it also motivates me to move forward and grow. I remember one competition where I failed to lift the target weight. The following week I went to the gym to lift that failed weight every day. It was also a teachable moment for my kids, who come to cheer me on at competitions, to show them that hard work and dedication can help you reach your dreams.”
Shana’s niece, who she is in the process of adopting, is often in the stands cheering her on. Shana appreciates the resources Booz Allen offers to help remedy pain points in the adoption process, including adoption leave.
“I also applied for and received the Wellness Wish scholarship that is helping me pay for a trip to Spain for the World Championship in Weightlifting,” adds Shana.
And she applies the same dedication to her career.
“I’m empowered by my colleagues and leaders to forge my own career path. After being in my current role for the past 4 years, I worked with my client and leaders to start a new position as an intelligence analyst for SSDP—a role that will combine my deep knowledge of the client’s mission and help me build a new skillset. I am changing the world by exemplifying that dreams are attainable.”
