Three professionals from the Savannah River Nuclear Solutions (SRNS) Supply Chain team were recently honored with 2025 Women in Supply Chain Awards by Food Logistics and Supply & Demand Chain Executive. This annual recognition honors supply chain leaders whose contributions, mentorship and leadership are shaping a more resilient industry.

The 2025 Women in Supply Chain winners are:

- Deborah Gardner, Senior Manager, Construction Service Procurements

 - Janette Robinson, Deputy Director, Supply Chain Procurement

 - Alana Harrell, Savannah River Plutonium Processing Facility (SRPPF), Oversight Property Manager

“The remarkable efforts of these women have revolutionized our business practices, streamlined processes, and developed innovative solutions to complex problems,” said Staci Peters, SRNS Senior Vice President of Business Services. “They are not only driving progress but also shaping the future of the supply chain at SRNS. Their ability to strengthen leadership pipelines and implement a people-first approach has transformed the way we operate. I am continually impressed by their dedication and impact.”

Gardner was honored in the 'Trailblazer' category for leaders who continue to pave the way for future generations. After transitioning her career from retail to the nuclear industry, Gardner created consistent processes to achieve government schedule requirements and mandates. She excels in providing complex project procurements and improving key Critical Decision packages, notably reorganizing the SRPPF Construction Subcontract Administration team into two distinct sections to enhance service efficiency.

Gardner’s advice to future generations is, “Focus on solutions, not problems. Build a team that recognizes obstacles, clears them, and develops strategic plans with backups. Create a psychologically safe environment where all strengths are harnessed to solve project challenges.”

Robinson was recognized as a 'Workforce Innovator' for her leadership in supply chain education and development. She has facilitated innovative process improvements and overseen SRNS’ annual procurement spend of roughly $480M. One of her notable projects was launching SRNS’ first supplier risk assessment program, augmenting supply chain resilience and ensuring better compliance and decision-making. Additionally, Robinson initiated a Managed Services Provider program to expedite access to critical labor, reducing onboarding times from 45 days to less than 21 days.

Robinson’s 33-year tenure at SRNS has equipped her with the wisdom to recognize when to challenge traditional approaches that fall short. Her guiding advice for future leaders is, "Don't wait for permission to lead; create space, bring solutions and own your impact."

Harrell was named ‘Rising Star,’ which recognizes newer professionals whose achievements and vision shape the supply chain network. She has contributed to several cross-functional teams, where she resolved complex challenges and significantly improved operational efficiency. Her efforts included reducing prescription safety eyeglass invoice match exceptions and earning her Certified Professional Property Specialist certification.

“Curiosity is the compass that has guided my journey in supply chain, and it’s the cornerstone of the advice I offer to the next generation of women in the industry,” said Harrell. “Ask bold questions, seek a deeper understanding, and approach every challenge as a chance to learn. I hope my commitment to lifelong learning and operational excellence inspires other women to lead with purpose, question fearlessly, and never stop pursuing knowledge.”

Click here to view the full list of winners. Recipients were honored at the fourth annual Women in Supply Chain forum held in Clearwater Beach, Florida.