U.S. Navy veteran Jomaica De Villa's journey to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) began with a chance meeting a decade ago. After immigrating to the United States from the Philippines post-college, De Villa encountered a CBP officer while working at a restaurant in the San Francisco Bay Area. This interaction sparked her interest in joining CBP, although she was initially uncertain about how to pursue this path.
Following her father's advice, De Villa enlisted in the Navy and served as an Aviation Electrician with Strike Fighter Squadron 195 on the USS Ronald Reagan. She later moved to Southern California to continue her military career in San Diego, where she also volunteered as a legal clerk and pursued a Master's degree in Management majoring in Homeland Security.
De Villa's aspiration to work for CBP persisted throughout her time in the Navy. Less than a year before completing her military contract, she discovered CBP SkillBridge opportunities on LinkedIn through a post by Jeffrey Jack, CBP National Veterans Employment Program Manager. Although familiar with the Department of Defense SkillBridge Program, she had not previously found opportunities in San Diego.
After reaching out to Jack and confirming her eligibility for the program, De Villa began a six-month SkillBridge internship with CBP’s Fines, Penalties, and Forfeitures Division at the Port of Otay Mesa. The division supports enforcement actions by CBP and Homeland Security Investigations.
The internship allowed De Villa to develop professionally with support from her supervisors and colleagues at CBP. She credits both her Navy supervisors for approving her participation and Jack for his advocacy in securing her placement.
Two weeks after completing the internship, De Villa received an offer to join FP&F as a Paralegal Specialist. Now employed full-time with CBP, she aims "to be the best paralegal I can be." Her supervisor Gilbert Ayala commended her work ethic and contributions: "She has always been willing to learn...a very much welcomed addition."
De Villa advises other transitioning service members to connect with Jack for networking opportunities within CBP's programs: "Because of him, I was able to expand my network...and gain skills."
Transitioning service members interested in participating can contact Jeffrey Jack at Jeffrey.R.Jack@cbp.dhs.gov or join the CBP Talent Network for more information on veterans recruitment programs.
CBP is America's largest law enforcement organization tasked with protecting national borders across land, air, and sea while facilitating lawful travel and trade.
