Maria Mola

Maria Mola serves as the U.S. Army Central Ready and Resilient Program Manager. She is responsible for the coordination, oversight, and development of the Command’s Ready and Resilient (R2) Program. This program builds the physical, psychological, social, spiritual, and Family preparedness and resilience of the Total Force.

She grew up on Army bases around the world but considers Hawaii home and graduated from Moanalua High School. She attended Marquette University on an Army ROTC scholarship before returning to Hawaii and attending Chaminade University. She is currently a student at Indiana University finishing a Bachelor of Science in Labor Studies.

Mrs. Mola’s most notable previous positions include Indiana Congressional District Intern (IN-2), Organizational Development Director for the Veterans Transition Center of California (Monterey, CA), and the Brigade Family Readiness Support Assistant (FRSA) for the 173rd Infantry Brigade (Vicenza, IT). 

Mrs. Mola comes with a wide range of R2 Certifications including Master Resiliency Trainer (Level I and II); SHARP Foundation Course; Equal Opportunity Leader’s Course (EOLC); Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST); Ask, Care, Escort-Suicide Intervention (ACE-SI T4T); Army Family Team Building (AFTB Levels I, II, and III); Army Spouse Mentoring Training; Rear Detachment Commander’s Training, and a wide range of Family Readiness Training Programs.

Her awards and achievements include a Certificate of Leader Development from the U.S. Army War College for completion of the Theater Army Staff Course (2024), three Civilian Service Achievement Medals (2024, 2025, 2025), AFI Military Spouse of the Year- Presidio of Monterey (2017 & 2018), guest presenter at the Annual National Coalition for Homeless Veterans Conference (2018), named an “Influential Woman of Monterey County 2018”, USAG Italy R2 Warrior of the Quarter (October 2020), USAG Italy Military Spouse Volunteer of the Year 2021 (served 840+ volunteer hours); and a Civilian Meritorious Service Medal (2021).

US Army Central Command Ready and Resilient Program Manager (GS-12)

JAN 2023-Present

Hours per week: 40

As US Army Central Command (USARCENT) Ready and Resilient Program Manager, I analyze, develop, and manage programs and projects related to the successful execution of USARCENT’s Ready and Resilient (R2) programs, including Master Resiliency Training (MRT), Army Suicide Prevention Program (ASPP) Army Substance Abuse Program (ASAP), Sexual Harassment/Assault Response Program (SHARP), Military Equal Opportunity (MEO), Soldier and Family Readiness Programs (SFRP), and Holistic Health and Fitness (H2F). I am focused on ensuring that programs not only meet the requirements established by the Department of the Army, but that they meet the unique needs of Command Teams, Soldiers, DA Civilians, and Families. 

Program Management and Analysis: Provides the Commanding General (CG) with sustainment/increases in personal readiness and resiliency for soldiers, Civilians, and Families by providing empirically based options related to the Headquarters, Department of the Army ready and Resilient (R2) Campaign. Oversees the evaluation of all primary Ready and Resilient Programs, including developing effective data collection methods, monitoring systems, and reporting systems. Plans for, coordinates, and executes a wide range of program evaluations and field studies in the areas of self-directed harm and prohibited abuse (e.g., substance abuse, suicide, sexual harassment, sexual assault, domestic and child abuse, etc.). Conducts program assessments and provides recommendations for senior leaders based on the findings using evidence-based best practices and social science mythologies and practices. Develops programming to meet the unique needs of various commands including, Sleep Hygiene, Bystander Intervention, Physical Recovery is a Mental Game, Facilitating Difficult Discussions (for junior and senior leaders), and more.

Policy Implementation: Communicates orally and in writing to present briefings, and prepares command correspondence, SOPs, MOIs, MOUs, and Policy Letters. Make recommendations for improving operations concerning all R2 program functions/operations. Responsible for developing, staffing, and publishing Commander’s Ready and Resilient Council (CR2C) standards and deliverables per HQDA Army Resiliency Directorate (ARD) standards. Develops successful working groups of diverse disciplines to accomplish R2 and command goals and objectives. Create and implement policies that address unique population dynamics and provide a linkage of R2 programs in already scheduled training events/reoccurring meetings. Design process and outcome evaluation plans before implementing R2 programs in support of prevention activities.

Command Engagement:Provide the commander with expert knowledge and understanding of DoD R2 Program Campaign efforts and integration into prevention efforts. Advise the command on all health promotion and R2 program issues within the command, providing recommendations for all concerns. Serves as the key advisor to the CG’s R2 activities to integrate, synchronize, and focus efforts, and assess R2 improvements, health of the Force (HoF), and CR2C outcomes. Work with Command Teams at all levels to address their unique population and provide support in the execution of R2 programming that best fits the needs of their population.

173rd IBCT (A) Solider and Family Readiness Programs Advisor

APR 2019- AUG 2021

Hours per week: 45

As the BDE Solider and Family Programs Advisor I analyzed, developed, and managed programs and projects related to the successful creation of a comprehensive BDE Ready and Resilient (R2) program, encompassing, SFRG, MRT, EO, SHARP, Suicide Prevention, and H2F. Applied superior ability to plan, organize, and execute complex programs with limited guidance, under conditions of significant flexibility involving multiple organizations and levels of command.

Regulatory Compliance: SME in unit requirements set by AR 350-1, AR 600-20, AR350-53, AR 600-63, and AR 600-92. Ensured Command teams and volunteers were trained, and that all programs met or exceeded the standards established by DoD or Army regulations. Provided guidance and support in the execution of 350-1 required training across the formation. Applied professional knowledge, background, and experience in Soldier and Family Readiness, SHARP, EO, Suicide Prevention, Risk Reduction, Resiliency, Holistic Health and Fitness, and all other R2 programming with responsibility for planning, overseeing, managing, coordinating, implementing, and evaluating the execution of the programs to ensure effectiveness and impact. Implemented the “Three Phase Inspection Process” to provide commands with the most accurate reflection of their programs and a concise way ahead. Conducted assessments of unit, at echelon, needs and set internal, metric-based goals to overcome any programmatic shortcomings and address areas of concern. Review data in light of regulatory provisions to determine the propriety and consistency of actions and/or the need for correction. Ensured that units, down to the company, remained “green” in training and manning requirements of AR 600-20.

Training and Program Development: Built, coordinated, and provided Brigade specific training to Command Teams, soldiers, DA Civilians, and volunteers. Provided oversight and support to BDE programs impacting Soldiers, DA Civilian, and Family member readiness and their ability to perform/support their assigned missions. Served as the BDE’s R2 SME and based on an understanding of resiliency programs, suicide prevention, SHARP, Commander Ready Resilient Council, and at-risk mitigation strategies and their interrelationships to extract, summarize, and identify significant trends and issues. Analyzed, evaluated, and developed plans and recommended strategies and procedures to facilitate the effectiveness and compliance of actions taken. Provided expertise and guidance in the development of countermeasures for high-risk activities based on research, data collection, and trend analysis/identification. Developed and delivered readiness training for service members, civilian employees, Family Readiness Groups (FRG), leaders, and family members.

Policy Implementation: Demonstrated expert knowledge and experience in the Brigade’s area of responsibility, readiness, sustainability, and the ability to implement programmatic changes with minimal disruption to the Command’s mission. Analyzed existing policy and provided input and guidance on needed policy updates. Developed and implemented systems to support the mobilization cycle, assisting with accommodating unit needs during missions and/ or deployments, and identifying and mitigating any internal disparities that may impact overall mission requirements. Identified resources needed for program support and established milestones and goals to produce meaningful and measurable results. Recommended courses of action and administered changes when recommendations were accepted. Applied superior ability to plan, organize, and execute complex programs with limited guidance, under conditions of significant flexibility involving multiple organizations and levels of command. Worked directly with functional chiefs and directors in pointing out factors of significance and presenting recommendations.

Advisor to Command and Management: Conducted a wide variety of complex studies, analyses, metrics development, and assessments of critical areas to spearhead the Command’s efforts to ensure a Ready and Resilient formation. Assisted in the development of a comprehensive inspection program. Demonstrated ability to deliver a complex analysis of existing capability and resource management, assessed factors that inhibited implementation, and worked to improve evaluation methods. Formulated reports that identify organizational issues. Insured superior training was created by participating in meetings, working groups, briefings, and workshops to deliver the most effective and cutting-edge training was developed to serve the needs of the unit and mission. Represented the Brigade at Garrison CR2C working groups, providing feedback on Brigade needs and brought back pertinent information to command teams. Exercised discretion on sensitive information. Identified required resources for programming and determined the long-term expenses in relation to maintaining the quality of programming for the lifetime of the program. Informed Senior Leaders of units, mission, and community trends impacting the quality of life for soldiers and families; working with a range of SMEs to create viable courses of action.

Veterans Transition Center

Organizational Development Director (equivalent GS-15)           

OCT 2016- JUL 2018

Hours per week: 60

As the Organizational Development Director, I analyzed and collected data on the effectiveness of the organization’s programs, systems, staffing requirements, and their ability to serve homeless Veterans. My duties included assessing program needs, creating a sustainable strategic plan focused on organizational growth over the next 10 years, and ensuring organizational compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations. Assisted in bringing Veteran Homelessness in Monterey County and Northern California to functional zero in 18 months.

Program Development: Demonstrated ability to conduct complex analysis of existing capability and resource issues and assessed factors that inhibited implementation and evaluation. Reviewed organizational requirements and conducted studies relating to such factors as turnover, mission, and technology to identify workforce dynamics, trends, and changes that would impact the effectiveness of current programs and implemented new systems to more thoroughly meet the needs of clients, staff, and the Veteran community. Implemented the addition of non-traditional support programs for residential clients, and program alumni, by bringing Art Therapy, yoga, job training, and computer classes on-sight. Collected, analyzed, and logged prevention data, and informed senior leadership, Board of Directors, and staff on measures of effectiveness regarding the prevention of harmful behaviors. Built and funded, through the competitive VA grant process, the addition of two additional housing programs to meet the growing needs of homeless Veterans, Rapid Emergency Housing and Permanent Supportive Housing. Regularly evaluated plans for effectiveness, efficiency, synchronization, integration, and relevance that potentially revise, redirect, eliminate, or add new initiatives as required. Raised the organizational budget from $980,000 to $2,600,000 million through sustainable private and federal grants, ensuring program funding for the next 10 years. 

Management and Supervision: Formulated appropriate and effective programmatic planning by participating in meetings, working groups, briefings, and workshops with various community partners and stakeholders. Formulated implementation plans and guidance to improve program effectiveness, and ease of delivery, and ensure programmatic benchmarks were met/exceeded. Applied research techniques and performance analysis, given specific guidance on methodology and interpretations, and developed a new course of action to maximize the ROI of programs. Conducted organizational and manpower surveys to gain a clearer understanding of program goals, the mission, and the changing requirements placed on the Center by outside factors. Developed and maintained the internal audit checklists utilized to evaluate the effectiveness of programs; recommending corrective actions, improvements, and expansions to resolve deficiencies and improve capabilities and effectiveness. Investigated allegations against staff and clients as a neutral third party. Provided guidance and advice to subordinates on a continuous basis through spot checks of work in progress, review of completed work, and effectiveness of operations. Established strong work relationships with professional associations, unions, the Installation Education Office, the TAP program manager, and the ACS Employment Readiness Specialist, in order to create a strong employment placement network.

Program Development, Evaluation, and Compliance: Prepared a variety of correspondence and reports such as position papers, fact sheets, inserts for record, testimony, and letters to members of Congress or Congressional Committees in response to written and oral inquiries from Congress or requests from Congressional staff. Organizational point of contact for matters that may result in Congressional or State government interest, inquiry, or investigation. Worked with the legislative liaison staff, executive Director, and Deputy Director to arrange key visits with members of Congress and professional staff members in support of initiatives. Created a comprehensive needs assessment for both client services and professional development, conducted internal program audits to collect and analyze program needs, advised the Board of Directors of changes to local/state/federal regulations, and implemented a change management strategy that embraced the modernization of client services. Analyzed programs, plans, and current problems to determine specific areas where congressional inquiry or investigation will have a favorable or unfavorable impact. Furnished guidance on the procedures and assistance to be rendered to Committee Members, individual members of Congress, and their staff to ensure proper handling of inquiries and dissemination of adequate information. Provided governmental officials from national, state, and local governments, public/private institutions, and organizations with information pertaining to program success and areas of needed assistance to meet the organization's mission.

Casey Lucius for Congress 

Volunteer Outreach Coordinator (equivalent GS-11)

FEB 2016- NOV 2016

Hours per week: 30   

As the Volunteer Outreach Coordinator, was responsible for the recruitment, training, and management of campaign volunteers. My responsibilities included providing new volunteers training opportunities, organization of campaign events, and the collection and analysis of volunteer effectiveness. 

Training and Program Development: Developed, promoted, and maintained a wide range of volunteer opportunities to meet the needs of interested community members looking to participate in a grassroots campaign. Created a Volunteer Management training program for campaign staff to ensure the retention of volunteers and maximize their impact by educating staff on the optimal utilization of volunteers with a wide variety of skill sets.

Program Evaluation: Implemented a needs assessment survey to collect data on areas of concern across the campaign to ensure that efforts were not being duplicated, resources were not wasted, and focus areas would have valuable ROI in terms of talent management, program success, and staff involvement. Provided weekly updates to Candidate and campaign staff on program shortcomings, and volunteer management issues and provided multiple courses of action for issues presented.

US House of Representatives (equivalent GS-09)

Congressional District Intern- Indiana 2nd District  

AUG 2015- FEB 2016

Hours per week: 30

As a Congressional District Intern researched and analyzed issues and legislation. My responsibilities included drafting memos, assisting staff with district events, establishing and maintaining relationships with constituents and businesses within the district, and provided the staff and Congresswoman with constituent feedback.

Administrative Support: Researched and analyzed constituent concerns and problems, providing Congresswoman with reports containing trends and solutions. Assisted constituents with filing claims, inquiries, or appeals through the federal system and ensured resolution meeting the constituent’s desire and federally mandated standards. Drafted correspondence such as reports, memorandums, charts and tables, and policies or procedures. Assisted in the preparation of briefings, orientations, workshops, or events that provide information on a wide variety of topics. Reviewed and assisted with federal grant applications being submitted by businesses, non-profits, and individuals from the District. 

Marquette University

Chaminade University of Honolulu

Indiana University- South Bend