#StoriesofNSA - When I started as a High School Work Study (HSWS), I didn't know anything about NSA. My Business teacher approached me about a position at NSA and my response was "Why?” He said "This would be great for your career. See what happens." It felt great to know that my teacher could see something in me that I couldn't even see in myself. I honestly wanted to be a pediatrician because I love kids and wanted to give back. My teacher convinced me to apply along with 50 other students and only three of us made it through.
NSA is like a huge city – similar to New York, with different boroughs with unique aspects such as its own acronyms. You’ll only know them if you're here. And I am pleased to see how NSA has expanded their marketing efforts over the years. It has evolved from being a super secretive, No Such Agency to a more open, transparent organization that attracts top talent through various public efforts.
I'm really impressed with the resources the agency provides (and continues to increase) to support government employees. A year ago, my wife and I wanted to pursue fostering so we ended up becoming certified foster parents. Our prayers were answered in April of 2023 when we were blessed with 18-months old twins. The joy, love, and laughter that the kiddos brought to us was irreplaceable and the best thing that ever happened to us. And I'm so grateful for the paid parental leave that enabled anyone who is having children/biological/fostering/adopting to take time away to bond with your children. We both had so much support from our supervisors. The agency really showed that family is a priority as well as mission and I'll never forget that.
I'm a people-person by nature and have always had a nurturing spirit to take care of people. My favorite role has been going from the African American Employee Resource Group Chairperson to the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility Deputy Director. I was in the ERG space right before society was impacted by social unrest and the pandemic and it felt very fraught to be leading. We really needed each other through the process and collectively we needed to trust the community and trust each other to navigate it all successfully. When I moved to the broader scope of DEIA, it had its moments where it felt similar. I applied for this role because I was (and still) passionate about ensuring people are valued, seen, and heard. It hurts me to my core when I hear that the workforce is encountering various obstacles that hinder their success. I just want everyone to be a good human as a close friend of mine would always say. I want to help the agency make progress for all, especially the underrepresented groups that need support, advocacy, and allyship to help shake loose barriers. I believe in inclusivity and civility for all, and I’m so lucky that in my job, I get to help move us closer to that goal –no one should be left out.
#pride
Cyber Security Intern
1wYou guys don't hire any applicants who have no experience and claim to offer training but don't actually train new hires. Glad to see my tax dollars aren't being used properly. Shame on all of you for requiring people to pass difficult pre-employment exams, not offering on the job training, and not paying new employees a living wage! I pray Trump drastically improves the HR department at the NSA.