Bio

Inducted to the Hall of Fame in 2020

Mary (Cathy) Dickens retired after a 37 year career as a civilian manager with the U.S. Army and joined COLSA in July 2015.  Prior to departing Civil Service, Ms. Dickens was the Deputy to the Commanding General, US Army Aviation and Missile Command (AMCOM), Redstone Arsenal, Alabama. In this position, she managed a multifaceted and diverse organization with an annual budget of over $18 Billion and a global workforce of over 9,000 military and civilian employees.

Prior to that position, she served as the Principal Assistant Responsible for Contracting and Executive Director of ACC-Redstone managing and directing an acquisition program consisting of contract awards of $25 Billion annually and active contracts of $110 Billion.

As Senior Vice President of Business Management Operations at COLSA Corporation, Ms. Dickens is responsible for providing executive leadership and oversight in the financial, human resources, contracting, subcontracting, proposal and pricing functions. Her organization provides business services across all programs and geographical locations. Ms. Dickens serves in a key role in providing financial stewardship and overall compliance in the business functions with a focus on driving efficiencies and continued growth. She leads the efforts in business growth through the proposal process, working with Government and Industry partnerships.  She plays a key role in developing and leading strategic planning initiatives for COLSA Corporation.     

Ms. Dickens was recognized with 3 Civilian Meritorious Service Awards, the AUSA Civilian of the Year Award, the Secretary of the Army Specialized Contracting Award, the Frank S. Besson Award, the Knight of the Honorable Order of St. Michael and numerous commendations for outstanding contributions during her career with the Army.  She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Athens State University and a Master’s of Science degree in Management from Florida Institute of Technology.  

Ms. Dickens serves as the Board Chair for the Athens State University Board of Trustees and as a member of the AUSA Civilian Advisory Committee. She is a member of AUSA, NCMA, NDIA and the Army Aviation Association of America.

Ms. Dickens has two married sons, two grandsons and a granddaughter.

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