Catherine Schmitz
Cedar Falls,IA
Summary
Over twenty years of experience with focus on security, technology, administration, and customer service for one of the most visible governmental agencies in the US. Strong communication and leadership skills with the ability to effectively problem solve, manage and train staff, and master cutting edge technology. Proven background working effectively under stress and pressure in a hands on, fast paced team environment. Organized Supervisor with successful history of managing competing priorities and meeting challenging performance targets. Works well under pressure to complete physically-demanding work. Safety-oriented team player with strong attendance record. Dedicated Security professional with history of meeting company goals utilizing consistent and organized practices. Skilled in working under pressure and adapting to new situations and challenges to best enhance the organizational brand. Organized and dependable candidate successful at managing multiple priorities with a positive attitude. Willingness to take on added responsibilities to meet team goals.
Overview
18
18
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Supervisory Transportation Security Officer
DHS/ Transportation Security Administration
11.2016 - Current
- Responsible for security and screening of passengers and baggage a day at Waterloo Regional Airport for governmental agency charged with providing security at 450 airports.
- Leadership role , which involved managing 8 security officers, handling administrative documentation and resolving ongoing passenger issues
- Recognized by management due to time of service, excellent performance assessments and passing all certifications tests required every year
- Selected to participate on safety committee which investigated claims and resolved safety hazards.
- Interacted with public to give directions, explain rules and regulations and respond to inquiries.
- Operated x-ray machines, hand wands and advanced imaging technology to conduct screening of passengers and baggage.
- Adhered to strict screening techniques and procedures while conducting human screenings.
- Maintained awareness and focus to identify potentially life-threatening objects or weapons of mass destruction.
- Discretely observed behavior and demeanor of travelers and staff to screen for suspicious actions.
- Conducted bag searches and performed pat-downs of passengers to maintain secure, safe premises.
- Operated X-ray screening machines and tools to screen people, containers and personal belongings for potential hazards and weapons.
- Used explosive detection machines and chemical swab systems to identify potential hazards.
- Attended daily briefings with supervisors to discuss issues with security screening processes.
- Engaged in casual conversations with individuals to assess and analyze behaviors.
- Performed target searches on individuals exiting screening equipment to detect prohibited and dangerous items.
- Performed deep searches and pat-downs to look for unauthorized materials and items such as weapons.
- Operated scanning equipment to view internal structures of luggage, purses and other bags to check for prohibited items.
- Trained repeatedly on active shooter response strategies to prepare for potential security breaches.
- Performed operational maintenance and calibration of x-ray and explosive trace detection equipment.
- Safeguarded transportation operations at commercial airports.
- Screened passengers by verifying ID's and boarding passes.
- Authenticated boarding passes, identification and passports to prevent fraudulent travel.
- Used Microsoft Word and Adobe to document and create incident reports.
- Responded to critical security incidents by applying standard operating procedures designed to minimize loss of life and damage to property.
- Provided top-notch protection for traveling public by conducting tests for explosives residue.
- Interacted with public to give directions, explain rules and regulations and respond to inquiries.
- Operated x-ray machines, hand wands and advanced imaging technology to conduct screening of passengers and baggage.
- Adhered to strict screening techniques and procedures while conducting human screenings.
- Maintained awareness and focus to identify potentially life-threatening objects or weapons of mass destruction.
- Increased employee retention and morale through positive reinforcement and consistent feedback on work performance.
- Enhanced team performance by providing comprehensive training and conducting regular evaluations.
- Improved overall security by implementing thorough screening processes and utilizing advanced technology.
- Developed strong relationships with law enforcement agencies, enhancing collaboration efforts during emergency situations.
- Contributed to a safe travel environment by maintaining up-to-date knowledge of current threats and industry best practices.
- Streamlined communication between staff, management, and external agencies, resulting in improved operational efficiency.
- Led a team of security officers successfully through numerous audits and inspections, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
- Ensured timely transportation operations by efficiently managing resources and addressing potential issues proactively.
- Implemented new training programs for staff members, leading to increased knowledge and skills in relevant areas.
- Fostered an inclusive work environment by promoting diversity within the team and encouraging open dialogue among staff members.
- Addressed potential security risks promptly, minimizing disruptions to passengers'' travel plans.
- Maintained a high level of passenger safety with adherence to strict security protocols and procedures.
- Collaborated closely with airport stakeholders to maintain clear lines of communication regarding ongoing operations or emerging concerns.
- Completed extensive training in emergency response protocols related to fire safety and hazardous material handling
- Developed and maintained positive rapport with passengers and other airport personnel.
- Operated x-ray machines, hand wands, and advanced imaging technology to conduct screening of passengers and baggage.
- Acted quickly during emergency situations to reduce opportunity for damage and injury.
- Directed passengers navigating screening process, providing additional support to individuals exhibiting difficulties.
- Executed security rules and procedures and calmly and promptly escorted non-compliant individuals out of building.
- Identified and challenged potentially unauthorized individuals for screening and detention in order to prevent access to restricted areas.
- Operated X-ray screening machines and tools to screen people, containers, and personal belongings for potential hazards and weapons.
- Collaborated with area law enforcement and federal investigators to support safe fugitive apprehensions and coordinate investigations.
- Managed team of trained security professionals engaged in anti-terrorism activities.
Owner
ProCAD Designs LLC
08.2006 - Current
- Managed day-to-day business operations.
- Developed and maintained strong relationships with clients, resulting in repeat business and referrals.
- Oversaw daily operations, ensuring all tasks were completed accurately and efficiently by team members.
- Trained and motivated employees to perform daily business functions.
- Successfully navigated challenging economic conditions by making informed decisions that protected the business''s financial stability.
- Managed financial aspects of the business, including budgeting, financial reporting, and tax preparation.
- Established a positive workplace culture that fostered employee engagement, collaboration, and loyalty.
- Implemented marketing strategies to increase brand awareness and attract new customers.
- Enhanced operational efficiency and productivity by managing budgets, accounts, and costs.
- Negotiated contracts with suppliers for better pricing and terms, reducing overall costs for the business.
- Hired trained, and managed a high-performing team of employees dedicated to achieving company goals.
- Mentored staff members on best practices in customer service and sales techniques, leading to increased performance levels.
- Increased customer satisfaction by implementing efficient business processes and providing exceptional service.
- Streamlined operations to improve efficiency, enabling more time to be spent on strategic planning and decisionmaking.
- Achieved financial growth with strategic planning, cost control measures, and targeted marketing efforts.
- Ensured regulatory compliance by staying abreast of industry-related changes and implementing necessary policies or procedures as needed.
- Optimized supply chain operations, negotiating with suppliers to ensure timely delivery of high-quality products.
- Fostered strong relationships with clients to boost retention rates, conducting regular feedback sessions.
- Improved team productivity by introducing innovative project management tools and techniques.
- Achieved significant cost savings by implementing energy-efficient solutions across company facilities.
- Elevated brand awareness with targeted marketing campaigns, leveraging social media and digital platforms.
- Interacted well with customers to build connections and nurture relationships.
- Handled problematic customers and clients to assist lower-level employees and maintain excellent customer service.
- Cultivated and strengthened lasting client relationships using strong issue resolution and dynamic communication skills.
- Scheduled employees for shifts, taking into account customer traffic and employee strengths.
- Managed purchasing, sales, marketing and customer account operations efficiently.
- Negotiated price and service with customers and vendors to decrease expenses and increase profit.
- Recruited, hired, and trained initial personnel, working to establish key internal functions and outline scope of positions for new organization.
- Reduced budgetary expenditures by effectively negotiating contracts for more advantageous terms.
- Tracked employee attendance and punctuality, addressing repeat problems quickly to prevent long-term habits.
- Updated and resolved incidents and managed accessorial charges objectively while maximizing profit.
- Tracked trends and suggested enhancements to both challenge and refine company's product offerings.
- Supervised creation of exciting merchandise displays to catch attention of store customers.
- Launched staff engagement, gender diversity and cultural programs in addition to robust reporting tool that increased operational quality.
Education
Certificate of Homeland Security -
DMACC
Des Moines, IA12-2018
Associate of Arts -
Hawkeye Community College
Waterloo, IA05-1991
Skills
- Microsoft Word, Word Perfect, Excel, Visual Basic
- Hazardous materials handling
- Threat assessment
- Integrity and honesty
- Threat management
- Incident reporting
- Procedure implementation
- Threat mitigation
- Multitasking
- Effective communication
- Critical thinking
- Active listening
- First aid training
- Risk assessment
- Written communication
- Cultural awareness
- Verbal and Written Communication
- Attention to Detail
- Outside Contractor Oversight
- Safety Management
- Accident and Injury Investigation
- Employee Safety Training
- Visual Inspections
- Tool and Equipment Maintenance
- Personnel Skill Assessments / Supervising Subordinates
- Hazardous Material Handling
Certification
- Hazard material handling Training - 2020-present
- Surge Capacity Force - FEMA Trained
- Suicide Awareness Gatekeeper -2018-present
- Tact Team training-2023-present
- NIACC Member 2023
- EAC Member 2007-2010 and 2020-2023
Timeline
Supervisory Transportation Security Officer
DHS/ Transportation Security Administration
11.2016 - Current
Owner
ProCAD Designs LLC
08.2006 - Current
- Hazard material handling Training - 2020-present
- Surge Capacity Force - FEMA Trained
- Suicide Awareness Gatekeeper -2018-present
- Tact Team training-2023-present
- NIACC Member 2023
- EAC Member 2007-2010 and 2020-2023
Certificate of Homeland Security -
DMACC
Associate of Arts -
Hawkeye Community College
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