Often working from the Chesapeake Economic Development Office, Linda Owen has provided procurement counseling since retiring from Civil Service in 2007. A graduate of St. Leo University, she began government service in 1976 at the Naval Air Station, Norfolk. She has worked in procurement and purchasing for a many naval installations including NAVAIR, NAVSEA, NAVFAC, NAVSUP, NAVAL MEDICAL, and SPAWAR. While Director of the Small Business Program, she met all small business goals for both of the commands under her direction. She enjoys meeting new people, learning their stories, and providing valuable information to assist them to grow their business and achieve the American Dream.