Hispanic Heritage Month Spotlight: Isabelle "Angela" Fusco, Management and Budget

How do you support NNSA?

I am a Human Resources Specialist servicing the Office of Secure Transportation.

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

I was born and raised in Albuquerque, NM. I love to spend time with my family, friends, and my two dogs. My family’s support encourages me daily. I value their strong and unending support in my work. 

What led you to a career in nuclear security?

My first professional job as a teenager after graduating high school was as a summer contractor for Sandia National Laboratories. This challenged me and helped me gain experience that applied later in my career in Personnel Security (where I worked for over 30 years) and Human Resources (where I’ve worked for the last five years). I am grateful for the opportunity to work in a field that contributes to the security of the country and the world. It’s incredibly meaningful and motivating to me, especially as my professional experience aligns with NNSA’s values of safety, security, and effectiveness. 

What is the best part about your job?

The best part of my job is getting to work with a so many individuals from different backgrounds and helping them navigate the hiring and onboarding process. We all know how difficult it can be to start a new job! It brings me joy to help ease the challenges that come with starting a new position and ensuring people get a positive start.

What is your proudest accomplishment while supporting NNSA? 

My proudest accomplishment is being brave enough to change career fields after 30+ years in Personnel Security. During my time in Human Resources, I’ve gained an understanding for its importance within NNSA’s mission to support national security. I am proud to have contributed to the onboarding of hundreds of important positions that support that mission. 

Tell us something interesting about yourself.

I love traveling with my family, exploring new restaurants, and especially love going to concerts. My most recent concert was Def Leppard with Journey and Cheap Trick. 

What advice would you have for anyone interested in a career in public service?

I would tell them to first apply through USAJobs. The selection and interview process can often be challenging, but I would encourage them to keep trying. Sometimes in order to get the position you’re shooting for; you first have to apply for supporting roles that give the experience and exposure needed for that dream role. I’d encourage them to get their foot in the door where they can, work hard, stay focused, and don’t give up. 

Who is someone that inspires you and why?

I have always looked up to my parents. I grew up watching them work hard. My father worked a full-time job and spent his free time tending to our garden, farm, and family. My mother worked to care for myself and my five siblings while also cooking and baking, as well as sewing many of our clothes. They always made us feel loved. They worked hard to meet the family’s needs and filled our hearts by sharing their love, faith, and joy for life with me and my siblings. 

How do you plan to commemorate Hispanic Heritage Month?

I am proud to be a Hispanic woman. I enjoy sharing traditional family recipes that have been passed down to me with my daughter. I also love listening to and singing with Spanish Rancheras music and eating New Mexican food. (Specifically, New Mexican food rather than traditional Mexican food. For those of you who don’t know, there is a difference 😉)!