Career Closeup

Episode 16: Federico Casso - Special Agent Diplomatic Security

In our first installment of law enforcement-related fields, we get a great opportunity to learn about the U.S. Department of State's Diplomatic Security Service (DSS).  To advance American interests and foreign policy, DSS protects people, property and information at more than 270 State Department missions worldwide. This agency is assigned many responsibilities as their agents are tasked with such missions as protecting the secretary of state and foreign dignitaries the U.S., combating international human trafficking, and investigation passport and visa fraud to help secure our borders.   Given recent events such as the attack on the U.S. Embassy on December 31, 2019, this episode could not be more relevant today. Special Agent Federico Casso discusses DSS, his assignments and his experience working with this dynamic organization. If you are in college working towards your bachelor’s degree and considering a job in law enforcement, this may be the perfect career for you. Timeline: * 00:00    Introduction * 00:51    What is Diplomatic Security and what do they do? * 02:16    The job, the missions and assignments abroad. * 07:32    Building relationships and support with host countries.  Example Paraguay * 16:13    Assignments within the United States. * 18:32    Requirements to join the Bureau of Diplomatic Security. * 19:46    Factors that may affect you negatively in applying to the Bureau of Diplomatic Security or any Federal job. * 23:38    Stages of Training to be a member of the Bureau of Diplomatic Security * 28:44    What is a typical day for you like? * 31:27    What are the challenges you have come across over the 16 years of your Career? * 33:33    What are the rewarding aspects of your job? * 34:58    How do you manage stress? * 35:28    What kind of impact does your job have on spouse and family life? * 39:00    Any other memorable experiences in the course of your career? * 41:10    The diverse educational backgrounds of agents operating in the Bureau of Diplomatic Security. * 43:27     What do you know now that you wish you knew back in college? * 45:52     What other opportunities are available for someone with your career, your Background? * 48:42     Closing and Summary 1. Photo credit: U.S. Department of State Photo(s) Links: https://www.globaltiesus.org/news/members-in-the-news/1431-agents-unknown-true-stories-of-life-as-a-special-agent-in-the-diplomatic-security-service [https://www.globaltiesus.org/news/members-in-the-news/1431-agents-unknown-true-stories-of-life-as-a-special-agent-in-the-diplomatic-security-service] https://careers.state.gov/ds/ [https://careers.state.gov/ds/] https://careers.state.gov/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/2018_SA_Brochure_v1.pdf [https://careers.state.gov/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/2018_SA_Brochure_v1.pdf] https://www.state.gov/bureaus-offices/under-secretary-for-management/bureau-of-diplomatic-security/ [https://www.state.gov/bureaus-offices/under-secretary-for-management/bureau-of-diplomatic-security/] Facebook link: https://www.facebook.com/StateDeptDSS/videos/458202725056748/ [https://www.facebook.com/StateDeptDSS/videos/458202725056748/] Link for career information and salary: https://careers.state.gov/work/foreign-service/specialist/career-tracks/diplomatic-security-special-agent/ [https://careers.state.gov/work/foreign-service/specialist/career-tracks/diplomatic-security-special-agent/] Great YouTube videos: https://www.youtube.com/embed/-QTzTP9vZRk [https://www.youtube.com/embed/-QTzTP9vZRk] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NdlTm4q1s_4 [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NdlTm4q1s_4] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6pUwqAN4KtM [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6pUwqAN4KtM]

Episode 15: Orlando Gomez - Multi-Platinum Recording Engineer

[rev_slider alias="episode-15-orlando-gomez-recording-engineer"]   Incredible Closeup this week with recording and mixing engineer Orlando Gomez of Beacon Hill Recording studio! Orlando gives us a great insight to the world of producing multi-platinum level musical projects, working with local talent to superstar artists and the teamwork behind the scenes it takes to make it all come together. Orlando discusses his own personal experiences in the industry as well as his recommendations for success in his field. Not surprisingly, his advice will help you succeed in any field.   Time 00:00 Intro 01:06 Role of audio engineer 02:17 The many roles in the production of a song 06:11 At what point did you decide to pursue a career in music? 07:29 How were you able to succeed in both your degree in electrical engineering and still pursue your role in the music industry? 08:58 Where do you see the music industry going with the emergence of sites like Soundcloud, youTube and iTunes? 10:53 What advice do you have for people trying to make it as musicians or producers at these sites? 13:27 What are some of the things you feel have had the most impact on your success as you were going through high school, college, or Apprenticeship? 14:13 Could you share with us some of the resources out there that someone in high school or college could use to help them further their music production knowledge? 15:32 Could you describe an average day of what it is like working as a music producer? 17:52 Are there any eclectic or offbeat ways you tap into your creativity? 19:22 Did you estimate the degree of success Khalid would have as you were working on his music? How did you feel about Grammy nomination? 21:16 Looking back at your success, what advice would you have for yourself when you were starting out? 22:41 What would you like to see happen in El Paso to keep the momentum going in terms of the music scene? 25:55 Working long hours as you mentioned, can you tell us about the challenges you come across in the process? Challenges with an artist, interpersonal challenges, creative challenges? 27:40 Is there anything else you want anyone to know who is interested in the music or production industry? 28:34 Summary   Related Links: Beacon Hill Recording Studio [http://beaconhillrecordingstudios.com/#ourwork]El Paso, TX- See the team at this studio, the artists they work with, and links to samples of their work. Beacon Hill Recording Studio's Soundcloud link [https://soundcloud.com/beaconhillrs] Recording Connection [https://www.recordingconnection.com/]- Real studio education, real studio connections. They offer many certifications in many cities across the United States.  Orlando featured in Recording Connection'sApprenticeship to Employment [https://www.recordingconnection.com/school-locations/el-paso/hired-in-el-paso-how-orlando-gomez-worked-himself-into-a-job/] andSuccess stories [https://www.recordingconnection.com/blog/2017/08/22/orlando-gomez-robert-macias-get-platinum-khalids-location/] Audio Engineering Society [http://www.aes.org] - for more information on this field. Sokanu - What does an Audio Engineer do? [https://www.sokanu.com/careers/audio-engineer/] Audio Engineer [https://www.thebalance.com/audio-engineer-525988] - career information from TheBalance.com

Episode 15: Orlando Gomez - Multi-Platinum Recording Engineer

Incredible Closeup this week with recording and mixing engineer Orlando Gomez of Beacon Hill Recording studio! Orlando gives us a great insight to the world of producing multi-platinum level musical projects, working with local talent to superstar artists and the teamwork behind the scenes it takes to make it all come together. Orlando discusses his own personal experiences in the industry as well as his recommendations for success in his field. Not surprisingly, his advice will help you succeed in any field. Time Line: 00:00 Intro 01:06 Role of audio engineer 02:17 The many roles in the production of a song 06:11 At what point did you decide to pursue a career in music? 07:29 How were you able to succeed in both your degree in electrical engineering and still pursue your role in the music industry? 08:58 Where do you see the music industry going with the emergence of sites like Soundcloud, youTube and iTunes? 10:53 What advice do you have for people trying to make it as musicians or producers at these sites? 13:27 What are some of the things you feel have had the most impact on your success as you were going through high school, college, or Apprenticeship? 14:13 Could you share with us some of the resources out there that someone in high school or college could use to help them further their music production knowledge? 15:32 Could you describe an average day of what it is like working as a music producer? 17:52 Are there any eclectic or offbeat ways you tap into your creativity? 19:22 Did you estimate the degree of success Khalid would have as you were working on his music? How did you feel about Grammy nomination? 21:16 Looking back at your success, what advice would you have for yourself when you were starting out? 22:41 What would you like to see happen in El Paso to keep the momentum going in terms of the music scene? 25:55 Working long hours as you mentioned, can you tell us about the challenges you come across in the process? Challenges with an artist, interpersonal challenges, creative challenges? 27:40 Is there anything else you want anyone to know who is interested in the music or production industry? 28:34 Summary Related Links: Beacon Hill Recording Studio [http://beaconhillrecordingstudios.com/#ourwork]El Paso, TX- See the team at this studio, the artist they work with and links to their social media. Recording Connection [https://www.recordingconnection.com/]- Real studio education, real studio connections. They offer many certifications in many cities all across the United States. Beacon Hill Recording Studio's Soundcloud link [https://soundcloud.com/beaconhillrs] Audio Engineering Society [http://www.aes.org] - for more information on this field. Sokanu - What does an Audio Engineer do? [https://www.sokanu.com/careers/audio-engineer/] Audio Engineer [https://www.thebalance.com/audio-engineer-525988] - career information from TheBalance.com

Episode 14: Shandi Keller - Army Blackhawk Pilot and Instructor

[rev_slider alias="episode-14-shandi-keller-blackhawk-pilot-and-instructor"]   Shandi Keller is someone we knew we wanted to speak to due to her accomplishments as a helicopter pilot in the Army and as an instructor for other pilots. We were fortunate she was able to stop by the day before moving to a new training station so we could record this interview.  In this episode, she discusses how she decided to enlist in the Army, what she did to prepare, and what she did to move up through ranks during her time in the Army. She also discusses ways to enter the military with a higher rank, different pathways to becoming a pilot in the military, and some misconceptions people may have regarding those in the military. One of the biggest takeaways is the importance of networking at every level, from sitting down with people who do the job that interests you, to making sure those who evaluate or rank you know who you are. It is important not only to make a name for yourself by doing your best, but to maintain your integrity in a small community where your reputation will most likely precede you.   Show Notes: 0:00 Intro 1:48 High school, decision to join Army and preparation to enlist 6:10 How long were you a Medevac pilot and how did you transition out of active duty? 8:55 Typical day as Instructor 10:00 Favorite part and challenges of job 12:32 Most memorable moments 19:55 Advice for someone wanting to be a pilot in the military? 27:00 What does she know now that she wishes she would have known earlier? 30:34 Any misconceptions about the military she would like to address?   Related Links: FAA - Becoming a Pilot [https://www.faa.gov/pilots/become/] US Army - UH60 Repairer (15T) , [https://www.goarmy.com/careers-and-jobs/browse-career-and-job-categories/transportation-and-aviation/uh-60-helicopter-repairer.html] US Army - High School to Flight School (Street to Seat) [https://www.goarmy.com/careers-and-jobs/current-and-prior-service/advance-your-career/warrant-officer/flight-warrant-officers.html] US Army - Aircraft, Helicopters and UAV [https://www.goarmy.com/about/army-vehicles-and-equipment/army-helicopters-and-uavs.html] Book -Shoot Like a Girl [https://www.amazon.com/Shoot-Like-Girl-Dramatic-Afghanistan/dp/1101988436/ref=pd_sim_14_1?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=1101988436&pd_rd_r=AE7AX96RA174BPMC0B3C&pd_rd_w=63UDI&pd_rd_wg=PxDJI&psc=1&refRID=AE7AX96RA174BPMC0B3C]Story of Medevac pilot Air National Guard major Mary Jennings “MJ” Hegar Book - Danger Close [https://www.amazon.com/Danger-Close-Journey-Helicopter-Afghanistan/dp/150111638X/ref=pd_bxgy_14_img_2?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=150111638X&pd_rd_r=YTJCZK77KR03WXR5B31Z&pd_rd_w=0fHEa&pd_rd_wg=sZmze&psc=1&refRID=YTJCZK77KR03WXR5B31Z]Story of Kiowa pilot Amber Smith

Episode 13: Jose Abraham Lopez, MD - US Army Veteran

Today on the Podcast and in honor of Veteran’s day, a very special interview with a U.S. Army Veteran that Francis and I know well.  We get an insight on what it is like to serve, the job of the enlisted in the service and to serve in the role as an officer.  The words sacrifice, challenge and demanding are mentioned.  Despite the depth of these words, they do not do justice to the true hardship our service members and their families endure to protect our freedom.  Join us today and learn about the true dedication and commitment one makes when you choose to join the armed forces. Timeline: 00:00  Introduction 01:55  Role in the military and decision to serve 03:42  Why the topic of Veterans and military service is important. 06:03  What life in the military and working as a soldier are like? 12:11  What I can expect if I enlisted tomorrow? 13:20  To be a great soldier 17:17   What was the impact of your service on your life? 21:28  What military service taught me about myself? 25:09  What were the best parts of your military service? 26:12  What were the more challenging parts of military service? 27:38  What advice did you share with your young soldiers? 31:18  What advice would you have for high school or college students considering military service? 36:58  What do these demonstrations by professional athletes truly mean to a veteran like you? 45:26  Summary Related Links: US Army goarmy.com [https://www.goarmy.com] ArmyTimes article [https://www.armytimes.com/news/your-army/2015/10/01/the-best-army-jobs-right-now-for-long-term-army-careers/] of best jobs for long term Army careers Non-profit group to help veterans: thebattlecontinues.org [http://thebattlecontinues.org] Inspiring Military Books: Admiral William McRaven's2014 University of Texas Commencement Address [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pxBQLFLei70]and book [https://www.amazon.com/Make-Your-Bed-Little-Things/dp/B06XKDM3QL/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1510617983&sr=8-1&keywords=make+your+bed+william+mcraven] Ghost Soldiers [https://www.amazon.com/Ghost-Soldiers-Account-Greatest-Mission/dp/038549565X] - Story of World War II's Bataan Death March Flags of Our Fathers [http://careercloseup.org/episode-8-rick-lopez-showrunner-assistant/]- The story behind the immortal photograph of Iowa Jima It Doesn't Take a Hero [https://www.amazon.com/Doesnt-Take-Hero-Autobiography-Schwartzkopf/dp/0788151827/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1510616775&sr=1-1&keywords=general+schwartzkopf]- Autobiography of General H. Norman Schwartzkopf Medal of Honor [https://www.amazon.com/Medal-Honor-Journey-Prejudice-Memories/dp/1574886924/ref=pd_sim_14_2?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=6PHGZSQARTC6F1GEDXSS] - The story of Roy P. Benevides's journey from poverty and prejudice Black Hawk Down [https://www.amazon.com/Black-Hawk-Down-Story-Modern/dp/080214473X/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1510616462&sr=1-1&keywords=Black+Hawk+down&refinements=p_n_feature_browse-bin%3A2656022011] - 1993 Battle in Mogadishu