Lana Allred's journey from the U.S. Air Force (USAF) to a role at U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), specifically with the U.S. Border Patrol (USBP), highlights the path service members can take to continue serving their country after military retirement.
Allred enlisted in the USAF in 1998, where she served for over two decades. Her roles included being a Financial Management Technician and later a Financial Management Instructor, during which she gained a reputation for excellence and mentorship. Additionally, she served as a post-9/11 Security Forces Augmentee and an Honor Guard member and trainer.
In 2009, Allred joined the Michigan Air National Guard as an Active Guard Reserve member. She retired as a Senior Master Sergeant after 20 years of service but felt compelled to continue her service through the Department of Defense (DoD) SkillBridge internship program.
Jeffrey Jack, CBP’s national Veteran Employment Program Manager (VEPM), introduced Allred to the DoD SkillBridge program's partnership with CBP. This opportunity allowed her to transition into her new role as a Budget Analyst on the Budget Execution Team at USBP Headquarters following her internship.
Reflecting on her experience, Allred stated: “SkillBridge is a military program—it is not without hard work and patience—but it results in massive rewards. One-hundred percent worth it, and a natural transition—USAF to USBP—continuing service to our great nation, combined with positive attitudes and camaraderie—I am home here too!”
Her story illustrates how military professionals can bring value to federal agencies like CBP through programs such as DoD SkillBridge.
CBP supports veterans like Allred in their continued commitment to national protection and support. Service members interested in transitioning through DoD SkillBridge can contact Jeffrey Jack at Jeffrey.R.Jack@cbp.dhs.gov or join the CBP Talent Network for more information on veteran recruitment programs.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is America's frontline law enforcement organization responsible for safeguarding travel, trade, economic prosperity, and security through innovation and collaboration.
