Educational Background:
- I had the pleasure of starting my Federal career right out of high school. I have taken Business Administration and Criminal Justice classes at PG Community College. I also have taken courses at the Human Resources Institute, the most recent course was Leadership Training for Non-Supervisors. In addition I have taken numerous CLC courses. I have also had the benefit of working with individuals who have trained me along my career. In 2021, I received my National Advocate Credentials from the National Organization for Victim Assistance.
Describe the career path that led you to your current job with the National Weather Service.
- I started my federal career in 1986 as a Stay-In-School Student program employee. I went to school ½ day and then worked at the Department of Commerce, International Trade Administration. After graduating high school, I was picked up as a full time employee. In 1991, I took a position with Customs under the Department of Treasury. In 2002, Customs became Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and was moved under the newly formed Department of Homeland Security. I remained with CBP as a Management Analyst until 2007 when I returned to the Department of Commerce with the National Weather Service. I am looking forward to one day ending my career where it all began at the Department of Commerce.
What do you do for the NWS?
- I am an Administrative Officer. In this position, I wear many hats: a role in facilities management, an agency point of contact for the onsite Security Guards, and tasked with overseeing HR related items for the nine NCEP Centers. Last year, I had the opportunity to be part of the new Workplace Violence Prevention and Response Office as the first class of Volunteer Assistance Liaisons (VAL) for the NWS. As this new program continues to grow, I am looking forward to opportunities to assist others in their time of need.
What was the most interesting, exciting, or impactful weather/water event you experienced while working for the NWS and why does it stand out?
- My most impactful experience has been since we have been working from home during COVID. During this time, I have been reaching out to NCEP staff to make sure they are being mindful of their self-care. I have set up lunchtime chats for parents so they can discuss and share tips with other parents who had to adjust to working from home and caring for their children. I have organized NCEP All Hands inclusivity discussions with the NCEP Director. These discussions have generated heartfelt conversations that have allowed individuals to share and learn from each other.
What made you decide to pursue a career with the NWS?
- When I joined NWS, it was due to the close proximity to home. At the time NCEP was located in Camp Springs, MD and was very close to home. I stayed with NWS because of the people I worked with.
What do you like most about working for the NWS?
- I like the dedication and commitment of NWS employees. There is a sense of pride being a NWS employee.
What advice do you have for someone interested in a career with the NWS?
- Follow your passion. If you are doing something you love, it will not feel like “work”. My passion is helping people. Being able to help someone resolve a personnel issue or get the assistance they need is a wonderful feeling. When you talk with the Forecasters you can hear the excitement in their voice as they explain the different models. I had the pleasure of working with Dr.Uccellini when he was the NCEP Director. He would get so excited when the models were showing snow in the area.
What training or coursework would you recommend to someone interested in following your career path?
- Courses in Human Resources and Diversity and Inclusion would be the foundation to build your career as an Administrative Officer.
