RDML Annie Andrews

Admiral Andrews is a trailblazer, becoming the third Black female Admiral in U.S. Navy history.
Native of Georgia and a graduate of Savannah State University.
Held pivotal leadership roles:
- Commanding Officer of Navy Recruit Training Command (Great Lakes)
- Director of Total Force Requirements
- Commander of Navy Recruiting Command
- Served at the FAA post-retirement as Assistant Administrator for Human Resource Management.
Currently President & CEO of Andrews Consulting Enterprises, focusing on human capital and leadership strategy.

Authenticity
- Be yourself regardless of rank.
- “People can see through inauthenticity.”
- Title or promotion should not change your core identity.
Approachability
- Stay connected to your team.
- Encourage open dialogue so people bring you real concerns, not just what they think you want to hear.
Accountability
- Own both successes and failures.
- Leaders must take responsibility, not deflect blame onto juniors.

Self-Awareness: Know your strengths (“assets”) and areas for growth (“liabilities”).
Empathy: Recognize personal struggles others may be facing; fosters inclusivity and support.
Emotional Intelligence: Builds stronger teams and better decision-making.
Fairness, Honesty, Commitment: Be the “iron fist with a heart of gold”; firm, fair, and compassionate.

Be Yourself: Don’t feel pressured to change professional identity. “Respectfulness never goes out of style.”
Civilian Culture Shift: You may be seen as “too military”. Stay authentic but adapt communication style.
Confidence in Skill Sets: Military experience (discipline, leadership, mission-focus) is valuable and respected by employers.
Overcome Doubt: “Yes, they will want you”; your experiences translate.

Foster collaboration and synergy.
Create a culture where “Your Voice Matters.”
Know your legacy and what you want to be remembered for.
Use six-word leadership mantras to define your command culture. Hers:
“People First. Mission Always. You Matter.”

Handling underappreciation in volunteer work: “Give yourself grace. Keep serving, even if not always recognized.”
Working under less experienced civilian supervisors: Be tactful. Make your ideas theirs. Build trust.
Staying in during workforce shortages: Lead where you are. Invest in those already serving. Your presence matters.
Transition anxiety: It’s normal. Employers need your leadership and integrity. Be open to growth.