Karen Durham-Aguilera is a prominent figure in the U.S. Army’s Senior Executive Service, known for her leadership and dedication to military and civil engineering projects.
Durham-Aguilera currently serves as the Executive Director of Army National Military Cemeteries and Arlington National Cemetery. Her role involves overseeing the operations and maintenance of these cemeteries, ensuring they honor the service and sacrifice of U.S. military personnel.
This biography provides an in-depth look at her life, career, and achievements.
Karen Durham-Aguilera Biography & Wikipedia
Here are key details about Karen Durham-Aguilera:
- Full Name: Karen Durham-Aguilera
- Current Position: Executive Director of Army National Military Cemetery and Arlington National Cemetery
- Role: Principal Advisor to the Secretary of the Army on all matters related to Army cemeteries.
- Education: Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Civil Engineering from the University of Louisville 12
- Additional Education: Attended Harvard Kennedy School of Government and the National Preparedness Leadership Institute
- Early Career: Worked in private industry for architectural and engineering firms before joining the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
- Military Service: Member of the U.S. Army’s Senior Executive Service
- Key Projects: Directed the reconstruction of Iraq and the hurricane flood risk reduction system in post-Katrina New Orleans 12
- Awards: Received the Bronze Order (2006) and Silver Order (2010) of the DeFleury Medal.
- Budget Management: Manages a $70.8 million annual budget and oversees $130 million in existing major constructions and expansions. 2
- Major Expansion Plans: Planning a new $300 million expansion for Army cemeteries
- Leadership Style: Known for her disciplined leadership and ability to manage high-stress, high-visibility assignments
- Personal Background: Details about her parents and siblings are kept private.
- Physical Statistics: Height: 5’ 5” (165 cm); Weight: 57 kg (125 lbs). 2
- Community Impact: Focuses on honoring veterans and their families, managing nearly 30 burials each weekday at Arlington National Cemetery.
Early Life and Education
Karen Durham-Aguilera was born in the 1960s, making her in her 50s as of 20231. She grew up with a strong respect for the U.S. Army, which influenced her career path.
Durham-Aguilera attended the University of Louisville, where she earned both a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Engineering in Civil Engineering. She furthered her education at the Harvard Kennedy School of Government and the National Preparedness Leadership Institute.
Career
After completing her studies, Durham-Aguilera worked in the private sector for architectural and engineering firms. Her performance in these roles led to a rapid rise in her career. In 1983, she joined the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, where she held various positions, including lead construction manager, project engineer, and resident engineer.
Durham-Aguilera’s career with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is distinguished by several high-profile projects. In 2003, she managed a team of over 100 engineers and scientists responsible for $3.5 billion in civil works and military programs. She played a crucial role in the reconstruction efforts in Iraq and the post-Hurricane Katrina recovery in New Orleans.
In 2017, Durham-Aguilera was appointed as the Executive Director of Army National Military Cemeteries, including Arlington National Cemetery 2. In this role, she oversees all Army cemeteries and serves as the principal advisor to the Secretary of the Army on related matters. Her responsibilities include managing a $70.8 million annual budget and overseeing major construction and expansion projects.
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Throughout her career, Durham-Aguilera has received numerous awards and honors. In 2006, she was awarded the Bronze Order of the DeFleury Medal, and in 2010, she received the Silver Order. These awards recognize her significant contributions to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and her leadership in critical projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Karen Durham-Aguilera’s age?
Karen Durham-Aguilera is in her 50s as of 2024.
What is Karen Durham-Aguilera’s net worth and salary?
As of 2024, Karen Durham-Aguilera’s net worth is estimated to be around $1 million. Her salary as a Senior Executive Service member is comparable to that of a general officer in the military, typically ranging from $160,000 to $180,000 annually.
What is Karen Durham-Aguilera’s nationality?
She is an American.
What is Karen Durham-Aguilera’s occupation?
She is the Executive Director of Army National Military Cemeteries and Arlington National Cemetery 2.
What are some of Karen Durham-Aguilera’s notable achievements?
She has received the Bronze and Silver Orders of the DeFleury Medal for her contributions to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.