Name: Jacqui
Job role: Program manager
Work location: Washington, DC
Years/months at Booz Allen: 8 years
We spoke with Jacqui about her unique path to Booz Allen and how she’s changing the world. Interested in hearing Jacqui’s story? Keep reading.
How did you get started in your field?
I came to Booz Allen through the college recruiting process. Early on, I gained invaluable experience in our civil accounts but hoped to move into the national security field because of my Arabic and international relations degree. At a networking event, I met someone in the intelligence account who introduced me to a team that was able to sponsor a security clearance and soon after, I joined them on a contract specializing in cyberthreat intelligence analysis.
Why did you choose Booz Allen? When did you know you’d made the right decision?
I knew choosing Booz Allen would allow me to try many different careers under one company banner. My decision to join is validated every year when a few Booz Allen/William & Mary alumni head back to our alma mater for college recruiting. I am just as excited to share my experiences with soon-to-be-graduates and hire the best and brightest as my newest colleagues.
What project are you working on?
I’m part of a leadership team managing work for a client whose mission is to provide and support intelligence on global threats. Our team’s analysts write products that hit the highest levels of the U.S. intelligence and policy communities. I’m so proud of Booz Allen’s long tradition of standing with our clients and accepting their missions as our own.
What do you do outside of work? What inspires you?
I’m involved in a program called College Bound, which pairs local professionals with DC public school students. The program aims to help those students apply and get accepted to college. I’ve worked with my current mentee for 5 years and watching her grow and learn inspires me every day. Attending college was a key building block in my life and career and I’m thrilled to help another young woman succeed.
Tell us about your best day at work.
Last year I traveled to London for my client and co-presented a year-long study for colleagues. So many long hours and late nights went into that study, so the presentation itself was overwhelmingly gratifying. After working with the client for a week, we took some time to visit the Churchill War Rooms. It gave me chills to think that during that time in history, Booz Allen was already an established company helping clients across the U.S. government. We assisted foreign allies in need then and continue to do so today through our long-standing tenure as a trusted government partner.
What kind of support do you get from your team and leadership?
My leadership is very encouraging of internal and external mentoring. I rely on my colleagues’ overwhelming experience to help me make decisions and steer my team. At Booz Allen, you are never alone.
