People Behind the Mission:

From Shelf Stocker to Team Lead, Bobby Cleckler’s Journey of Leadership and Service

Image: BAC employee Bobby Cleckler wearing a grey BAC work t-shirt and jean shorts. He is smiling and wearing black framed corrective eyeglasses and grey athletic shoes. He stands next to a freezer at a grocery store, commissary, at Whiting field. He is pulling packages of Hawaiian rolls out of a cardboard box which is propped on a wheeled metal stocking cart.

BAC employee Bobby Cleckler stocking shelves at NAS Whiting Field Commissary

For more than eleven years, Bobby Cleckler has demonstrated what growth, determination, and leadership look like in action. Today, as Team Lead at BAC’s Whiting Field Commissary, he serves as a mentor, trainer, and advocate for his team, but his journey began in a part-time shelf stocking position.

Born Deaf, Bobby learned early in life that success would require persistence and resilience. Supported by his family, he graduated from the Alabama School for the Deaf and developed a strong sense of service through organizations such as the Boy Scouts, where he earned the rank of Eagle Scout. Those early experiences helped shape the servant-leader mindset that continues to define his career today.

Since joining BAC, Bobby has consistently sought opportunities to learn and grow. He advanced from shelf stocker to Meat Room Custodian and ultimately to Team Lead. In his current role, he helps ensure shelves and displays remain stocked, supports inventory operations, and trains team members to maintain quality standards.

What sets Bobby apart is not simply his work ethic, but his commitment to helping others succeed.

Throughout his career, Bobby has helped bridge communication gaps between Deaf and hearing communities. When customers were unsure how to communicate with him, he responded with patience and positivity, teaching them effective ways to interact and ensuring they received the assistance they needed.

Today, customers often ask for Bobby by name.

As a Team Lead, Bobby serves as a trainer, mentor, and interpreter for other Deaf associates. He works closely with management to foster an inclusive work environment where employees of all abilities can succeed. His colleagues describe him as dependable, positive, and someone who consistently makes others feel welcome.

His leadership extends beyond the workplace. Bobby has served as President of the Pensacola Association of the Deaf, taught American Sign Language, and participated in Deaf ministry outreach efforts within his community.

Despite his accomplishments, Bobby remains focused on continued growth. He hopes to one day advance into an Assistant Project Manager role and continues to seek opportunities to develop his leadership skills.

When asked what he enjoys most about his work, Bobby points to the people around him.

His teammates inspire him daily, and he takes pride in creating a positive environment where everyone works together toward a common goal.

Bobby’s story reflects the power of opportunity, perseverance, and inclusive employment. Through his leadership, he demonstrates that talent, determination, and character are what truly define success.

At BAC, we are proud to celebrate employees like Bobby who help build stronger teams, stronger workplaces, and stronger communities.

Growth in Leadership

“Leadership is about teamwork. I make sure we’re working together, staying on task, and supporting one another. I’m learning everything I can so I can lead by example and help my team succeed.”

~Bobby Cleckler