My name is Alejandro “Alex” Palma, and I am a veteran of the U.S. Navy Construction Battalion (aka Seabees). At the age of 20, I traveled from Mexico City, Mexico, to Chicago, Illinois, and financially supported my dreams of higher education by maintaining multiple odd jobs. After a few years, I found my way of enlisting and servicing this great nation.
During this time, as a construction design enthusiast who exemplifies the Seabee motto of “Can Do,” I moved up in the ranks, led sailors, managed and supported security equipment at naval installations. Following these achievements, I earned an undergraduate on Information Technology and eventually built up a network of friends that helped me land a career within the federal government.
Initially, I supported American Embassies abroad, later becoming part of Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) until my final transfer to Customs and Border Protection (CBP) approximately eight years ago. Proving myself a valuable asset to the organization, I became a well-known figure managing the security posture of CBP Field Operations and earning my transfer to the State of Florida. At this regional office, I maintain the security portfolio of CBP’s installations extending from Pensacola to Key West and Jacksonville to Tampa.
I am currently a year shy of achieving a Masters of Science in Information Technology; while reaching a half-century of age and glimpsing 30 years of combined federal service at the horizon. I am a firm believer that it is time to pass the baton to the next generation and enjoy retirement in this beautiful State.
Hi Alex, thank you for your service in the Navy. My husband is currently in the military too, but he is in the Army. We are currently stationed in Germany for the next three years. Did you have a favorite duty station? I loved living in Seoul due to all the delicious Korean foods and K-Pop songs playing everywhere. Congratulations on all of your hard work and achievements on getting a career with the federal government. That is truly inspiring life events. Working hard and dedication does pay off. Hope you enjoy your retirement. I cannot wait until I can retire too, but I have a long ways to go still.
Hello, Alejandro “Alex” Palma!
I appreciate your service to the Navy and your sacrifices. Your story is really inspiring. I congratulate you on your achievements, especially for securing a job with the federal government. I am impressed by your commitment and hope you achieve your goals. Best of luck in your retirement and I hope to emulate you in the future.
Like Lynn, I’m curious to know where your favourite duty station was? And how was it there?