Paul DePrimo

What’s your current position?

I work at Tobyhanna Army Depot as a Lead Training Administrator. I have been in this position for 10 months and working at the depot for 7 years. I work with a team of Training Administrators and Training Instructors who facilitate and provide continuing education to over 2,000 Federal employees. Our trainings range from electronics and soldiering certifications all the way to industrial and information technology certifications. These courses are critical to keeping the daily operations of the depot functioning in accordance with Army Regulations, ISO safety, environmental, quality, and Aerospace Standards.  Prior to this position, I was a supervisor for 6 years at the depot, where I had the opportunity to work alongside and lead several other Leadership Lackawanna alumni!

What would you say most motivates you to do the work you do?  What are you most passionate about?

I retired from the Pennsylvania National Guard in 2013 with 26 years of service. As a prior warfighter, I have spent more time in and around the Army than not, so I’m honored to continue supporting our current servicemembers. We strive to take care of our troops and provide them with the proper equipment/tools they need to conduct their peacetime and warfighting missions.

Where did you grow up and did you go to a college/trade school after high school?

I grew up in NEPA - was born in Dupont and relocated to the neighboring town of Pittston when I was 12. I served 6 years in the US Army Reserves where I was as a Carpentry/Masonry Specialist, educated by the US Army. As a civilian, while working for a large local business, I had an opportunity to complete an Apprentice Program through Penn State, which granted me a Journeyman Machinist degree.  I also hold licenses as a Wastewater and Water system operator through Department of Environmental Protection Agency. In addition, I completed 22 years in the PA National Guard where I completed all phases of the US Army Non-Commissioned Officer Academy (NCO) which allowed me to reach my retirement grade, as a senior NCO.

Did you have any key mentors or people who deeply influenced who you are?

Watching my Mom and Dad work extremely hard to provide for our family and not complain about their job or the struggles they endured really showed me that hard work will someday pay off.

Tell a bit about them and what they did that influenced you.

My Dad worked in the local mines until World War II, when he deployed and served in the Army overseas for 23 months. Upon his return, he took advantage of the GI Bill which put him through 3 years of trade schools as a carpenter, cabinetmaker, and mason. Since jobs were hard to find after WW2, he returned to the local mines until the mine he worked at closed in the early 1960s. He then worked at Mariotti Lumber until his death at the early age of 60. My Mom was a hard worker who raised our family and worked cleaning houses until she passed away at the early age of 68. Their work ethic and efforts to provide for us made me who I am today.

How did you learn about Leadership Lackawanna?

My current employer is a strong believer in providing leadership opportunities to those who want to become or maintain the role of a Leader.  I was intrigued when I heard of employees graduating from Leadership Lackawanna, so I applied!  I was accepted and graduated as part of the Core Class of 2023.

 I strongly believe in teamwork, professionalism, and commitment; the monthly Leadership Lackawanna sessions provided us with those values. I went into the program with eyes wide open looking to improve myself or perhaps mentor other teammates. When we got to the hands-on portion of our project, that was where our team shined, everyone came together and helped one another to complete our CORE project to create Capouse Corner in Scranton.

What has your involvement with Leadership Lackawanna been post-graduation?

I recently served a Construction Advisor for the 2024 Core class, working with the Anthracite Bicycle Coalition team. I also enjoy attending Leadership Lackawanna events and look forward to engaging in many more to support this great program!

Let’s get personal: tell us your favorite movie and favorite local restaurant!

 Favorite Movie: We Were Soldiers.  It takes place during the Vietnam War era and highlights the integration of helicopters into Army Doctrine (which became known as the US Air Cavalry.) Mel Gibson played Colonel Hal Moore who was all about teamwork, taking care of his troops, and completing the mission.

I enjoy many local restaurants - too many to list!  One that stands out is Frank’s Place in Simpson.  Excellent food, great service, and a real commitment to customers.