Meet Daniel Tercero, who has spent time living and working in Alaska during his time in the United States Air Force, traveling to some of the most remote locations in Alaska.
April 5, 2024
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The Arctic Energy Office is hosting a series of interviews to highlight the lives and achievements of some of DOE’s outstanding employees with Arctic and Alaska connections. Today meet Daniel Tercero, who has spent time living and working in Alaska during his time in the United States Air Force, traveling to some of the most remote locations in Alaska. Daniel now works as an Audit, Privacy, and FOIA Coordinator for the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA). If you're a Department of Energy employee and have Arctic connections or know someone at DOE who does, please connect at [email protected] so we can feature you in future editions.
Tell us about your experience in the Arctic. What were some of your favorite memories from that time?
I spent about two years living in Alaska when I was stationed at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson from August of 2021 to July of 2023 with the U.S. Air Force. During this time, I was fortunate enough to be able to travel to some of the most remote locations and villages in the Arctic. Some favorite memories from this time were being able to obtain just a little bit of appreciation for the dedication and ingenuity of making a life in such harsh conditions. My job included installing and testing mobile satellite communications systems in several long-range radar sites. The logistics of working with mechanical tools and electronic and hydraulic systems in these austere weather conditions made me really appreciate those individuals who had built the original infrastructure in the Arctic region.
Why did you want to work at the DOE? When did you start?
I started working for the Department of Energy in November 2023. With my background of over 20 years of service in the United States Air Force, the opportunity to remain in a capacity to serve within the Federal government really appealed to me and drew me to the Department of Energy. I am excited by the ingenuity and creativity of an organization like the DOE embodies and is part of what I like about it.
What do you do now at DOE?
I am a contractor for the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) Office of the Chief Information Officer supporting the Audits and Privacy Programs, respectively. I make sure our team stays on top of all audits, especially the tech and cybersecurity ones. From coordinating schedules to giving feedback on audits and keeping our documents organized. I keep our senior leaders in the loop and make sure everyone's up to speed on audit management tools and issues. With regards to the NNSA Privacy Program, I support the management of internal guides and policies on how the NNSA collects, processes, and uses data.
What do you love about your job?
What I love about my job is the people. The positive interactions and collaboration to solve problems in real time to further the mission of the DOE and the NNSA is very gratifying. It resonates with my deeply ingrained sense of teamwork and partner relationships that I gleaned from my time in the Air Force.
How did your time in the Arctic shape who you are today?
My time in the Arctic has been a transformative journey that has significantly shaped who I am today. As a member of the United States Air Force (USAF), my experiences in the Arctic region have fostered a deep appreciation for both environmental conservation and the rich cultural heritage of the Indigenous peoples residing in these remote areas. These experiences have heightened my awareness of the critical need for environmental stewardship and sustainable practices.
How does your time in the Arctic impact your perspectives at DOE?
In essence, my time in the Arctic has instilled in me a sense of responsibility – not only to safeguard the environment but also to honor and preserve the cultural diversity of the Indigenous peoples who call the Arctic home. It has shaped me into a more environmentally conscious and culturally sensitive citizen, influencing both my personal values and professional approach.
What’s your favorite place in the Arctic?
My favorite place in the Arctic is Point Barrow because of how remote it is and how you truly do feel like you are standing on the edge of the world as you stare out into where the endless ice meets the power of the gray depths of the Arctic Ocean. (Editor’s Note: check out this article from Task & Purpose to learn more about the military’s work in Point Barrow).