How GovCIO Champions Continuing Education

For Kitty Hauk, Director of Education & Training for Defense Training Solutions at GovCIO, the decision to pursue a master’s degree was about more than adding a credential to her resume, it was about expanding her perspective.

“I’ve always believed in staying curious and pushing boundaries, not just professionally but personally,” Hauk shared. “Pursuing my MBA was more about how I think, lead, and contribute, and less about the credential itself. I wanted to strengthen my strategic thinking, my financial acumen, and my leadership toolkit so I could better serve my teams and our mission here.”

GovCIO supported Hauk every step of the way. Flexibility, trust, and encouragement from both managers and peers created an environment where pursuing her degree was not only possible but celebrated.

“GovCIO didn’t just support me through the process, they championed me,” Hauk said. “I was empowered with flexibility, trusted with leadership opportunities, and surrounded by colleagues who genuinely encouraged my growth. Whether it was through a supportive manager or a culture that values learning, I never felt like I had to choose between my education and my career.”

Of course, balancing graduate school with a demanding role wasn’t without challenges. Time management and shifting mental gears proved difficult at times, but Hauk relied on a mindset of prioritization and resilience.

“It reminds me of a quote by Nora Roberts, that some of the balls we juggle are glass and some are plastic. The challenge is learning which ones can be safely set down and which ones need to be caught every time. That helped me prioritize with purpose and give myself grace.”

For Hauk, the greatest accomplishment wasn’t just completing her degree, it was showing up consistently, proving that growth doesn’t need to wait for the “perfect time.”

“I didn’t just earn a degree,” she said. “I proved to myself that growth doesn’t have to wait. You make the time for what matters.”

When asked what GovCIO’s investment in her education meant in a single word, Hauk didn’t hesitate: empowerment.

“It wasn’t just about making space for my growth, it was about actively encouraging it. That kind of investment doesn’t just benefit me. It ripples through the mission, the team, and the impact we create together.”

At GovCIO, we know that when our people grow, our mission grows stronger. That’s why we remain committed to supporting continuing education, whether through tuition reimbursement, flexible opportunities, or a culture that champions lifelong learning.