Nick Lambert joined COLSA as a Program Analyst supporting the S3E contract and later became the COLSA Project Lead for the Army Materiel Command (AMC) PMO team. He was then offered the opportunity to support COLSA’s expanded drone capability, where he initially served as Operations Lead. Earlier this year, he was promoted to Deputy Program Manager, helping lead the continued growth of the organization and the expansion of its manufacturing and production capabilities.
“One of my greatest motivations is knowing that the products and capabilities we deliver could ultimately support the men and women who defend our country. My family enjoys the freedoms we have because of their willingness to serve, and I believe I owe them my very best. That perspective reminds me every day that what we build isn’t just a product. It can make a real difference to someone serving in harm’s way.”
How Nick’s Career Prepared Him for His Current Role
Nick began his career as an inventory clerk at a small aerospace manufacturer. Within his first year, he helped bring a consistently delayed program ahead of schedule by reducing waste and improving production efficiency. This led to his promotion into manufacturing management.
“In that role, I oversaw the production of window frames used on many of today’s commercial and military aircraft while leading the company’s adoption of its MRP system to improve production planning and scheduling.”
Later, Nick joined Northrop Grumman as a Material Planner supporting the C-RAM program and multiple U.S. Air Force programs. He was subsequently promoted to Manufacturing Analyst, where he developed plant health metrics and executive reporting for all 13 U.S. manufacturing facilities.
After that, Nick joined SAIC as Production Lead for the Army’s Improved Data Modem (IDM) program, managing production activities at Letterkenny Army Depot. He then served as Logistics Lead and Local Government Property Coordinator for the S3I BOSS (Battle Operations Software Suite) program before returning to the IDM program as Deputy Program Manager.
Along with Nick’s robust work experience, Nick holds an Associate’s degree in Information Systems and a Bachelor’s in Business Administration with a minor in Project Management from American Intercontinental University.
Why Nick Chose COLSA to Grow His Career
Nick said joining COLSA felt like a natural choice. The growth of small, unmanned aircraft systems represents an exciting future, and Nick says he’s grateful for the opportunity to help build COLSA’s expanded drone capability from the ground up. Being entrusted to contribute to that mission is something he takes seriously.
“Since my wife was already a COLSA employee, I had a firsthand view of how the company genuinely invests in its employees and their families. Seeing the opportunities COLSA provided her inspired me to become part of the organization and earn those same opportunities for myself. It also gave me a strong desire to give back to a company that had already done so much for my family.”
Nick’s Superpower and How He Uses It at COLSA
Nick’s superpower is bringing clarity to complexity. He enjoys taking problems that seem overwhelming, whether they’re technical, operational, or organizational, and breaking them down into clear, repeatable processes that help teams succeed.
While delivering successful programs is important, Nick believes his greatest responsibility is helping his team grow professionally. Watching people develop new skills, take on greater responsibilities, and advance in their careers is one of the most rewarding parts of his job.
“At the end of the day, no one succeeds alone. My goal is simply to create the structure and environment that allows great people to do their best work.”
Whether it’s building a team, a production process, or a new capability, Nick enjoys creating something that didn’t exist before. He likes solving difficult problems and leaving behind systems that make everyone around him more successful.
More About Nick
When he’s not at work, you’ll usually find Nick woodworking, tinkering with guitars or drums, camping, or watching Alabama football. He also thinks of himself as a bit of an anomaly because despite being born and raised in South Alabama, he’s been a die-hard Boston Red Sox fan for as long as he can remember.
Most of all, he and his family love spending time at the beach, and they hope to eventually call the Gulf Coast home in retirement.
“My family is at the center of everything I do. They’re my biggest motivation and the reason I work so hard.”
