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COMMAND/ORGANIZATION: Program Executive Office for Aviation – International Apache TITLE: International program manager YEARS OF SERVICE IN AAW WORKFORCE: 5 DAWIA CERTIFICATIONS: Foundational in life cycle logistics; Project Management Professional (PMP) EDUCATION: M.S. in supply chain and logistics management, University of Alabama – Huntsville; B.S. in social work, University of North Alabama AWARDS: Certificate of Appreciation from the Royal Netherlands Air Force for dedicated service in support of the AH-64D/E Apache Program (2024)
MEGHAN LANGSTON by Katie Ross
As an international program manager for the Army Acquisition Workforce’s Poland Apache AH-64D/E Program, Meghan Langston is responsible for managing the life cycle of the entire platform: Ensuring that the weapons system, training, materials and support are delivered efficiently, transparently and in alignment with the strategic objectives of both the U.S. and Poland. In a nutshell, she’s a critical liaison between the American and Polish governments and related stakeholders. Yet, her efforts typically go unnoticed.
“My work involves coordinating with U.S. government agencies, defense contractors and international stakeholders to manage timelines, budgets and performance requirements,” Langston said. “Much of the work we do in Foreign Military Sales (FMS) operates behind the scenes to quietly strengthen international partnerships.” Her role is essential to bolstering defense and long-term alliances, while promoting international security.
But this role is a far cry from where Langston started.
Though her interest in military aviation and public service began at a young age, Langston’s test scores fell short of those required by the U.S. Naval Academy, so she opted instead to pursue a more traditional college degree. Following in her mother’s footsteps, she became a licensed social worker, another vital but often unrecognized vocation.
“I spent eight years in that field, but realized I needed a change,” said Langston. “While pursuing a master’s degree in supply chain and logistics management, and working simultaneously at a long-term care facility, a former colleague mentioned an open position at the Army Aviation and Missile Command Security Assistance Management Directorate; they needed a logistics management specialist for the Royal Netherlands Air Force AH-64D/E Apache Program.”
The position, which focused on weapons systems and offered plenty of opportunities to work with international partners and travel, immediately appealed to Langston. She submitted her application, interviewed for the position and was offered the job that same day.
A co-worker would later point out that one of the charms on her bracelet—a high school graduation gift from her mother—was an Apache helicopter. “I took that as a meaningful sign,” she said.
Easily one of the most pivotal moments in Langston’s Army acquisition career was being entrusted with the development of the Letters of Offer and Acceptance, or LOA, for both the Poland Apache AH-64E Program and the tandem lease of eight AH-64D aircraft.
“That effort led directly to my selection as the international program manager, an incredible opportunity I’m truly grateful for,” she said. “While the transition came with its fair share of learning curves, the growth has been invaluable and unforgettable.”
Supporting the delivery of AH-64E aircraft to the Royal Netherlands Air Force was her favorite experience by far.
“While sleeping onboard a C-17 wasn’t exactly luxurious, I embraced every moment—and every stopover—with enthusiasm,” Langston said. “Leaving the Netherlands Apache Program was difficult and bittersweet, but I’ve learned the value of saying ‘yes’ to new opportunities; such experiences have shown me just how unique and rewarding this career path truly is.”
Although her path to Army acquisitions wasn’t exactly traditional, it taught Langston a valuable lesson: What’s meant for you won’t pass you by.
“When advising junior acquisition professionals, I always encourage them to take every opportunity, especially the ones they may not feel fully prepared for,” she said. “Growth happens outside your comfort zone, and saying ‘yes’ builds both confidence and capability.”
Part of that growth process is achieved through training. Langston recommends the Project Management Professional (PMP) certification at the Project Management Institute for anyone pursuing project or program management.
“It sharpens both technical and strategic thinking, while offering a broader view of how large-scale efforts come together, which are especially valuable in the FMS world,” she said. “PMP principles help bring structure and clarity. A surprising benefit was connecting with professionals from other industries; their insights offered fresh perspectives, reminding me that innovation often comes from looking beyond your own environment.”
In addition to further education or training, Langston advises anyone looking to bolster their skill set to seek out opportunities to shadow other people and engage in mentorship.
“Some of the most valuable lessons come from observing how others achieve success—their technical skills and job knowledge, how they communicate, lead and treat those around them,” she said. “Both of my parents taught me that while your knowledge base may set you apart, it’s not just what you know, but how you carry yourself, how you treat others and the work ethic you demonstrate that ultimately opens doors and drives your career forward.”
“Faces of the Force” highlights the success of the Army Acquisition Workforce through the power of individual stories. Profiles are produced by the Army AL&T magazine team, working closely with public affairs officers to feature Soldiers and civilians serving in various Army acquisition disciplines. For more information, or to nominate someone, go to https://asc.army.mil/web/publications/army-alt-submissions/.
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| Date Taken: | 07.25.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 07.28.2025 08:33 |
| Story ID: | 543827 |
| Location: | US |
| Web Views: | 36 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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