Photo By Daniel DeAngelis | Retail therapy, Carolina Panthers football, the U.S. Navy and contributing to the...... read more read more
Retail therapy, Carolina Panthers football, the U.S. Navy and contributing to the mission success of Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY) bring joy to Code 109 Information Technology and Cybersecurity Department Customer Service Branch Manager Tajuana “Renee” Martin. She was also recently Acting Division Head for Code 109.4 Waterfront Support.
Martin is a retired Chief Warrant Officer and has contributed to the success of NNSY since February 2021 and finds her career at the shipyard to be very rewarding.
Recently, Martin was recognized with a Patriot Award presented by the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) recognizing leaders for outstanding support of Guard and Reserve members and their families. Martin earned this honor for going “above and beyond” assisting a Code 109 member preparing for deployment.
“As a veteran herself, Mrs. Martin uniquely understands the challenges of the military,” said NNSY IT Specialist Shenay Graham. “Throughout my deployment, her consistent encouragement and genuine check-ins meant the world to me.”
Graham continued, “What truly sets her apart, however, was her willingness to look after my family while I was deployed. Knowing I was concerned about my elderly grandparents, she personally offered to check in on them and ensure they were doing well.”
Martin’s genuine commitment to her team is evident in how she leads.
“I find two things most rewarding about my job. First, it's the people—working with and mentoring my team, building strong relationships, and watching them grow professionally is incredibly fulfilling,” said Martin. “Second, it's knowing that we are actively fulfilling the Department of War mission by supporting our warfighters.”
Martin continued, “It gives me a deep sense of purpose. I always remind my team that we are part of something much bigger. While our individual contributions may seem small at times, together we make a meaningful impact.”
She finds the most challenging aspect of her job is providing Tier 1 support, which is designated as the first level of help to resolve problems without requiring technical expertise.
“We're often the first point of contact, which means when support is delayed or something goes wrong—regardless of where the issue originated—our team is typically the one held accountable,” said Martin. “Our visibility puts us in a unique position to build trust, drive solutions, and ensure that the warfighters and shipyard personnel have what they need to succeed.”
Martin believes that good communication, teamwork, and staying mission-focused are all keys to successfully overcoming any challenge.
“I prioritize open dialogue within my team and with other stakeholders to quickly identify root causes and work toward effective solutions,” said Martin. “I also remember not to bring yesterday’s challenges into today, which helps me, and my team maintain a fresh perspective and stay resilient.”
Martin draws on her experience as a warfighter; she stays calm under pressure and works hard to motivate her team and keep them focused on their goals.
She believes a good leader provides a supportive environment in which each team member feels appreciated.
“I think a good leader inspires trust and confidence by leading with integrity, empathy, and accountability,” said Martin. “They communicate clearly, listen actively, and understand the strengths and challenges of their team members.”
Martin praises her best friend, Purple Heart recipient, Chief Warrant Officer Cottie Allen, for contributing to her success as a leader.
“Cottie told me, every task matters, especially when supporting our military and the larger defense mission,” said Martin. “This advice has kept me motivated and helps me lead by example, reminding my team that our work is about something greater than ourselves.”
Martin continued, “Additionally, it’s essential to hold yourself accountable, learn from your mistakes, and continuously improve—that’s how you grow into a stronger professional and leader.”
Graham also shared that Martin’s committed support for her military service went far above and beyond on her recent deployment. She praised Martin for being an outstanding leader and advocate for veterans.
“Martin’s dedication to her employees, both professionally and personally, is what makes her such an exceptional supervisor,” said Graham.
When she’s not at work, Martin is an ardent Carolina Panthers football fan and enjoys a little retail therapy.
| Date Taken: | 12.03.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 12.04.2025 06:48 |
| Story ID: | 552837 |
| Location: | PORTSMOUTH, VIRGINIA, US |
| Web Views: | 8 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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