Before becoming a transportation security inspector for TSA, Brittaney Rupert did a little bit of everything at Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG). As an airline employee, Rupert worked behind the ticket counter and at boarding gates, the ramp and operations. She interacted with TSA officers on the ramp as they checked badges that allow people to enter the secure areas of the airport.
“It was that experience in aviation that aligned with my motivation to pursue a career at TSA,” Rupert said. And it was there where Rupert started talking with TSA employees about what it was like to work for the agency.
A lead officer at TSA made sure Rupert knew about an opening. She applied and has worked for the agency ever since. Rupert started as a part-time officer at CVG in 2015 and worked her way up. After accepting a full-time position, Rupert climbed the ladder to a supervisory officer position. A year ago, Rupert was promoted to a job inspecting cargo at John Glenn Columbus International Airport in Ohio.
Rupert’s background was a perfect fit for TSA. Before coming to the agency, she earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice with a concentration in homeland security/terrorism and a master’s degree in science with a concentration in homeland security administration from Tiffin University in Ohio.
Rupert is currently working alongside an indirect air carrier whose goal is to set themselves up to transport cargo. The carrier has the means, equipment and employees, but started largely out of compliance and unaware of security requirements and documentation. Rupert works with the carrier to make sure they implement appropriate compliance measures and are ready to transport air cargo.
Recently, Rupert identified an error with an all-cargo international air carrier that failed to implement a required agreement. Rupert resolved the situation by coordinating with stakeholders to enhance the checks and balances process.
Rupert’s role at TSA is an important one. “My goal is to advance outcome-focused security solutions that ensure regulatory compliance and reduce vulnerabilities,” she said. “My aim is to share effective measures related to regulatory compliance and transportation security. I am fortunate to be able to work alongside the individuals who comprise the industry, build cooperative relationships and work toward instituting measures that ensure compliance.
“I have been extremely fortunate to have the opportunities offered to me by TSA, and I would recommend to anyone to try and get involved,” she added. “I’ve met fantastic people nationwide, many of whom I’ve kept in contact with along the way. And I look forward to working alongside others in the coming years.”