"People First" In Practice: The 2025 Government Shutdown

The ongoing federal government shutdown has dominated headlines. It is a high-stakes political standoff with ripple effects across the country, impacting everything from public services to national security. Beneath the noise of debate and commentary lies a more human story. For many federal employees, legislation passed in 2019 provides a crucial safety net for back pay when the government eventually reopens. And while this does not erase the stress of missed paychecks, compounded by the upcoming holidays, it offers a degree of certainty in uncertain times. For government contractors, particularly small businesses that make up the innovative ecosystem of our industry, there is no such certainty. There is no guaranteed back pay. There is no clear timeline. Teams and individuals are sent home, work is paused, and operational pressure tightens in a mode of austerity.

At Missionovo, we are fortunate to have most of our team working during the shutdown despite operational pressure on the company, but we do have some on our team directly impacted. We are navigating these challenges with a firm commitment to our people and our principles. Our values: “People First. Mission Always.” are not aspirational - they are foundational and guide every decision we make, especially in moments like this.

We have taken proactive steps to ensure that payroll and benefits continue uninterrupted, even for team members who are temporarily unable to work. We are going even further by encouraging and covering learning and professional development - investing in our people even when the system stalls.

This moment will test every small business leader in this space - not just operationally, but empathetically. We cannot control politics, but we can control how we treat each other. We are choosing to lead with empathy, honesty, and grit. When the doors reopen, we will be more prepared than ever to do great things. Through all of this, our team continues to show the professionalism, resilience, and dedication that make Missionovo who we are. Whether on-site supporting critical work or at home waiting for the next update, our people are showing up for each other and for the customers we serve. We are staying true to the values that define us.

People First. Mission Always.

U.S. Capitol Dome Apotheosis and Fresco Frieze, Photograph from Rotunda Floor

Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons