Civilian Career: Testimonials

Perhaps the best way to learn what it's like to work and grow at the U.S. Coast Guard is to ask those people who know first hand. Read what some of our employees have to say on a number of topics involving their U.S. Coast Guard careers.

HEAR FROM OUR EMPLOYEES - PEOPLE WHO KNOW FIRST HAND


Nadine's Testimony

Veronique's Testimony

Jeff's Testimony

 

 

NADINE, PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICER
U.S. COAST GUARD HQ, WASHINGTON, DC


WHAT DO YOU DO IN YOUR JOB?
As a Public Affairs Officer working for the Community Relations Directorate, I am responsible for public outreach and establishing mutually productive relationships within our community. One of my many duties is the Coast Guard Authors Program. My role is to provide assistance to fiction and non-fiction authors in the research and production of works focused on the past and present missions and personnel of the Coast Guard. This allows for the service to be depicted in an acceptable, accurate and dignified manner. I am also responsible for the use of protected words and symbols. It is my responsibility to ensure that the words "United States Coast Guard" or any variation thereof; as well as the service's seal, mark and emblem are used within the provisions of the federal law.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR BEST DAY ON THE JOB. WHAT MADE IT SO SPECIAL?
The Coast Guard participated this year in Public Service Recognition Week at the National Mall in Washington. I was in charge of setting up the booth, soliciting volunteers, and ensuring the event was a complete success. Watching 500 elementary school children dance to the Coast Guard's official mascots (Sammy the Sea Otter and Officer Snook) and asking our Guardians, a pilot and a rescue swimmer, how they too would like to follow in their footsteps one day was truly memorable.

WHAT WOULD YOU SAY IS THE ONE THING YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT WORKING AT THE U.S. COAST GUARD?
The camaraderie, unity and positive working climate.

WHY SHOULD SOMEONE CHOOSE A CAREER WITH THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT?
The Federal Government has many benefits and provides stability. But the most important aspect of a career with the federal government is the pride of knowing that you are giving back to your country, you don't need to be in the armed forces to serve the nation.

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VERONIQUE
MARKETING PROGRAM ANALYST/EDITOR
U.S. COAST GUARD HQ, WASHINGTON, DC


WHAT WOULD YOU SAY IS THE ONE THING YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT WORKING AT THE U.S. COAST GUARD?
Hands down, the people. On the elevators, in passing, or on a team, everyone is respectful and kind.

WHY SHOULD SOMEONE CHOOSE A CAREER WITH THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT?
While security is probably the most textbook answer to this question, I believe there is so much more benefit. For me, it is the opportunity to grow tremendously, the training offered and various options in the Federal Government are endless.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO JOIN THE U.S. COAST GUARD?
USCG is big enough to get the job done and small enough to care. Although the Coast Guard is a military organization, it is small enough that I am able to get to know folks on a more personal level.

WHAT IS THE MOST SATISFYING ASPECT OF YOUR JOB?
The people, flexibility and challenge.

WHAT ARE THE EMPLOYEE BENEFITS LIKE?
Fair and awesome.

TALK A LITTLE ABOUT THE U.S. COAST GUARD'S SCHEDULING/WORKPLACE FLEXIBILITY
I am able to telecommute one day a week and when there are things going on in D.C. that don't allow for an easy commute. Being a single mother, this saves me a load of stress!

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JEFF
ACCOUNT RECONCILIATION
U.S. COAST GUARD HQ, WASHINGTON, DC


WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO JOIN THE U.S. COAST GUARD?
I started to work here as an intern when I was a college student at Gallaudet University. After my graduation from Gallaudet University, I saw the opportunity to apply for the permanent job after enjoying working here.

WHAT IS THE MOST SATISFYING ASPECT OF YOUR JOB?
My most satisfying aspect of my job is having great access with communication tools, especially with video phone, communicator and emails, despite the fact that I am deaf, using American Sign Language.

WHAT ARE THE EMPLOYEE BENEFITS LIKE?
The Federal Government graciously gives us a secured retirement plan - Thrift Savings Plan. They offer us a numerous of choices on our health insurance. Those were the main reasons I want to stick working for the Federal Government.

TALK A LITTLE ABOUT THE U.S. COAST GUARD'S SCHEDULING/WORKPLACE FLEXIBILITY
Able to set our working hours to fit our daily routine. This case helps me to stay here working late and make a short commute to Fairfax County, Virginia where I teach American Sign Language class in the evening hours, rather than going back to my home in Maryland.

WHY SHOULD SOMEONE JOIN THE U.S. COAST GUARD?
If you are not able to get into military, U.S. Coast Guard gives you an opportunity to work in the military field as civilian. They offer variety jobs that can suit your abilities.

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