AF Member Profile: Federal Government Professional
Editor’s Note: This AF member would like to remain anonymous due to the nature of their work.
The Nitty Gritty
Current Position:
I work in the budget realm in the Office of Inspector General at a federal agency.
How long I’ve been a member of America’s Future Foundation:
About 7 months.
What I do, and why I love it:
Though “working in government” may sound like an oxymoron, we in the OIG actually try to save taxpayer dollars. In a general sense, I’m happy that my work helps to fight the fraud, waste, and abuse that occurs in government.
Invaluable skill I’ve learned:
MS Excel! It’s invaluable for all things budgetary and financial.
Most important moment in my career (so far):
Having worked in both the private and public sectors, it’s hard to pinpoint just one moment. At my current agency, I have been publicly recognized and awarded for the work I’ve done to save agency funds.
Biggest career lesson I’ve learned:
Be willing to take on new tasks and help others, even those outside of your immediate working group. Sometimes this can be a way to get promoted, since others may notice your talents and strengths and want you to come work with them.
What attracted me to politics:
Going to undergraduate at a university in a large metropolitan area afforded me the opportunity to get involved in political activities. There were certainly times when the experiences were invigorating.
How I formed my political beliefs:
It would probably be a combination of my education and my upbringing.
Opportunities I see for the movement:
As more and more of our freedoms are being stripped away, we have a prime opportunity to present our ideas and solutions as a refreshing alternative. Let’s not miss it!
Most important trait to have to be successful in the movement:
Charity. Sometimes we can win the argument, but turn others off to the movement by the way we act. Don’t be a pompous jerk — treat others with kindness even if you don’t agree with them.
Why I think America’s Future Foundation is important:
AF is crucial in training and educating young people to fight for liberty in our country. I’m excited to see that the new “Let’s Talk” program is getting started, since this sounds like a practical, hands-on approach to learning how to engage others.
Any advice for freedom fighters beginning their careers?
The world needs you in all areas of professional life. Be a Constitution-loving, liberty-fighting person who works in the arts, in medicine, in business, in education — wherever you feel called to be. Whatever you do, do it well, and your co-workers will respect you, even if they disagree with your political convictions.
Fun Facts
If I were going on a Netflix binge, it would be …
The Office (U.S.) or Person of Interest
Favorite Political Talking Head?
It’s hard to beat El Rushbo.
Favorite British Television Show?
Downton Abbey.
Any good commuter stories?
You never know who you will run into while riding metro! When I was on the Hill last fall, I passed Kathleen Sibelius within the Capitol South station.
Most underrated movie of all time?
Sophie Scholl: The Final Days. It’s probably not the most underrated, but it’s definitely a film which liberty-loving young adults should watch.
How about the most overrated?
Titanic.
Liz Thatcher works in marketing at the Center for Shared Services. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Studies from the Master’s College.