Hannah Towery loves her job—and not just because of its location near scenic Denver, Colorado. As a Budget Analyst with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Hannah is able to put her business administration and accounting skills to work for NOAA as it pursues its mission to understand and predict changes in climate, weather, oceans and coasts.
While pursuing her Masters in Accounting from Georgia Southern University, a career counselor told Hannah about the Workforce Recruitment Program (WRP). She had always been interested in federal employment, so she immediately applied to the program and went through the process of submitting her resume. A hiring manager soon contacted her about the NOAA position, and after three rounds of interviews she was hired.
In her role as a Budget Analyst, Hannah monitors expenses, funding and salaries and keeps track of grant awards and spending. She says the experience has benefitted her tremendously, both by helping her build skills and put them to work for the greater good. “My job at NOAA has given me a newfound passion and pride in my work as an analyst,” she says. “I'm not only gaining new skills and financial experience in large scale government, but I also get to support an agency doing very important work.”
Hannah, who has one hand, is grateful to the WRP for helping students and graduates with disabilities like her secure federal employment. “I'd always wanted to work in the Federal Government, but it is very competitive, overwhelming and difficult to stand out on USAJobs [the Federal Government’s official job site],” she says. “So, it's truly amazing that the WRP exists.”
Hannah moved to Colorado for the NOAA position and takes full advantage of the beautiful surroundings. She hikes almost every weekend and also enjoys cooking, running and traveling. In terms of future plans, she hopes to continue working within the Federal Government in finance and accounting roles. “Ideally, I would like to stay within NOAA and keep contributing to its important mission,” she says. “I also want to continue learning and evolving with a focus in developing my IT, communication and leadership skills.”
Hannah’s advice for potential future WRP participants is, “Don't hesitate, just apply! I'm still in disbelief that I received my dream job, and I am extremely grateful for this opportunity.”