Profiles in Nonproliferation: Maricarmen Corte

What is your personal background, and how has that shaped you and your approach to your career?

As a first-generation immigrant from Mexico City, my experiences have profoundly shaped me, influencing everything from my work ethic and values to my culinary preferences. Today, I find myself engaged in the critical work of safeguarding international borders against smuggling.

My upbringing involved frequent travel between the United States and Mexico and embarking on a new life alongside my mother. This gave me a deep appreciation for the value of hard work, particularly for immigrants. My personal journey, from the English as a Second Language classroom to where I am today, has fueled my passion for effective communication and the importance of ensuring equal representation of languages and cultures in every setting.

This journey led me to different roles, from immigration to teaching, and I now aspire to build a long and impactful career with NNSA.

What did you study in school and how did it impact you personally and professionally?

During my undergraduate years at Texas Tech University, I pursued a dual major in philosophy and electronic media and communications. This academic journey greatly enhanced my capacity to effectively convey intricate and dense concepts to broader audiences.

In graduate school, I delved into the realms of international security and humanitarian affairs, with a specific focus on techno-policy issues within the context of the Korean peninsula. This was driven by my core values of knowledge sharing, respect for human dignity, and the imperative to uphold international security—a cause I find deeply meaningful in today’s world.

My academic path has not only shaped my beliefs but also served as a driving force behind my career, motivating my commitment to non-proliferation efforts.

What led you to a career in nuclear security?

My experience as a teacher in South Korea had a profound influence on me, sparking a deep interest in understanding the complexities of war, peace, and conflict. This newfound perspective, particularly within the context of the ongoing Korean War, stayed with me even upon returning to the United States and pursuing my graduate studies.

As a result, I chose to focus my studies on the Korean peninsula. Additionally, I joined the Committee for Human Rights in North Korea, where I eventually took on the role analyzing satellite imagery. I helped experts educate the public about what was happening in North Korean labor and prison camps. The issue of human rights in North Korea is closely intertwined with the country’s nuclear program. This experience was a pivotal point that led me into my current role in the field of nuclear security.

What is the best part about your job?

Undoubtedly, the most rewarding aspect of my job is the people. Every person I’ve had the privilege to engage with at NNSA has a unique quality that I deeply admire and respect. This is a rarity, and it extends to the remarkable individuals I collaborate with in the Central Asian region, especially our counterparts, who left a lasting impression on me early on.

Tell us something interesting about yourself.

In 2010, I attended the World Cup in South Africa, where I had the pleasure of meeting members of both the Spanish and Dutch national soccer teams, which eventually faced off in the finals.

Do you have any highlights from your time supporting NNSA?

My experience as a NGFP fellows, as well as my first visit to Uzbekistan. During this visit, I explored several of the sites we worked with, learned from our partners at the U.S. national labs, and collaborated with our local partners. This personal engagement and on-the-job learning felt incredibly natural, and it’s something I eagerly anticipate doing again.

What advice would you have for anyone interested in a career in nuclear security?

For anyone interested in a career in nuclear security, or even considering it, I want to emphasize that this is a field where I, as a Hispanic woman and immigrant, have felt exceptionally comfortable and welcomed. I truly believe that I have a long and promising career ahead of me in this field. It’s a place where every door is open and opportunities for growth abound. This isn’t something that can be said for every profession, and I’m excited to be working alongside others who share the goal of mutual growth.

Who is someone that inspires you and why?

Teachers in our country, my closest friends, and women in high-ranking positions inspire me. They’ve thrived despite challenging conditions, some of which were beyond their control. Yet, they’ve chosen to accept these conditions, laughed in the face of adversity, and forged ahead.

How do you plan to celebrate/commemorate Hispanic Heritage Month? Do you have any traditions related to this observance

During Hispanic Heritage Month, I’m committed to addressing the deep-seated generational complexities within our culture. This goes beyond combating machismo and extends to the challenges faced by Hispanic individuals, whether in the United States or elsewhere. I aspire to embracing my identity as an immigrant and Mexican American without carrying the pain of my ancestors, working toward a happier future for myself and others.

Every year, since the inception of Hispanic Heritage Month, I have taken the time to contemplate what my ethnic identity means to me. It’s a moment for me to reaffirm what it means to be Hispanic in the United States, and each year brings unique insights. This year, buoyed by the fellowship and my role at NNSA, I’ve found the confidence to fully embrace my authentic self and a newfound clarity regarding my aspirations and dedication to public service within DOE.