ARTESIA, N.M. – In an impressive career spanning over four decades, Elise Burtrum has exemplified commitment, resilience, and leadership as a Disability Program Manager stationed in Artesia, New Mexico. Her extensive experience in public service has been a journey of continuous growth and increasing responsibilities across various government roles.

Elise's path to public service was profoundly influenced by her family, particularly her father's inspiring stories from his time in the U.S. Army Air Corps and Navy. Motivated by his legacy she felt a strong calling to serve her country and set an example for her siblings, who also served in the military.  Elise enlisted in the Navy at 18 as a radioman/electronic technician, a role that required mastering technology and code. Stationed in Western Australia, she was one of only 12 women at the duty station, working with low-frequency communications for submarines. “I was proud to show that women can do the job and pave the way for others to follow,” she recalls.  When she left, there were over 100 women serving at the duty station.

After her active-duty career, Elise transitioned to civilian service with the Navy, spending almost twenty years with the Department of the Navy in Maryland. Her journey through various administrative and managerial roles was marked by moves across several states, driven by an unwavering commitment to excellence despite personal challenges. “I was always expected to be better,” she reflects. This drive led her to Alaska where she worked with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). “It’s the most beautiful place that I have ever been in the whole world. It’s very picturesque and beautiful. When I travel abroad, it’s not for scenery, it’s for history.  You can experience a bridge that has been there for 1,000 years. In the United States, we have beautiful landscapes, and abroad, they have the longevity and history.”   

Alaska also brought her love. There, Elise met her husband, Michael Burtrum, a civilian mechanic with the Air Force. They have been married for 12 years and share a blended family of five grown children, four of whom have served in the military.

As a Disability Program Manager at FLETC, Elise embodies the concept of being a “Jane of all trades.” Her diverse skill set is vital in navigating the complexities of Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) issues. “Awareness is crucial,” she explains. “Understanding where your thoughts are helps you to understand others better.” She emphasizes the importance of building relationships based on trust and strives to remain neutral while overseeing processes related to disability accommodations.

Elise's dedication to service is underscored by her favorite quote from Eleanor Roosevelt: “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” This philosophy, framed and prominently displayed in her office, reminds her of the power of belief and the importance of self-confidence. She focuses on providing both formal and informal training on disability issues, believing that informal interactions often leave a lasting impact.

Reflecting on her accomplishments, Elise recalls a moment when an employee expressed gratitude for her support. “In my last job as the EEO Manager for BLM Alaska, I was credited with moving the work culture in a positive direction,” she shares, highlighting the difference she aims to make in the workplace.

Outside of work, Elise is passionate about travel and home improvement. “Travel comes first for me. When I’m home, I’m always tearing down walls or painting something,” she laughs, acknowledging that her husband isn’t always thrilled with her projects. “He’s really not looking forward to the garden area I want to build when I’m happy with the house.”

During a trip to FLETC-Artesia, Director Benjamine C. Huffman presented Elise with her 40-year certificate and pin during a town hall meeting.  As Elise looks back on her remarkable career, she reflects on the legacy she wants to leave for her family: “I hope they believe that I stood for something.” With her ongoing dedication to public service, compassion for others, and commitment to personal growth, Elise Burtrum continues to be a beacon of strength and leadership, paving the way for future generations. Her journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, the importance of gratitude, and the profound impact of compassionate leadership. She finishes with, “I don’t feel like I’m done.”  

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