Profiles of Women of EPA: Sandra Rivera
Sandra Rivera, MBA, Communications Branch Manager, Office of Engagement and Program Management, Customer Experience & Communications Division and EPA’s Hispanic Employment Program Council Chair
Office of Mission Support (OMS)
Washington, DC
Where were you born?
I was born and raised in Lynn, Massachusetts. My mother is from Cali, Colombia and my father is from Arecibo, Puerto Rico.
What brought you to EPA?
While attending a job fair, I approached the EPA booth to ask about the type of opportunities they were recruiting for. I told them I had a business degree and I am sure they could use someone like me in their organization. I provided them with my resume and within a few weeks, I got a call for an interview in their acquisition’s office. EPA provided me my first federal government opportunity.
What type of work do you do at EPA?
As the Communications Branch Manager in the Office of Engagement and Program Management, I lead the team responsible for developing and implementing the OMS communications to external and internal stakeholders. From sharing information about their products, services, and requirements with customers to publishing and delivering consistent and engaging communications products, including communication plan, information notifications, newsletter articles, mass mailers, infographics, quick reference guides, training material and videos. The external Communications Team supports the OMS IO/OMS Offices and external stakeholders, with congressional requests, media/press, conference organizers, OMS intranet sites and internet presence.
Additionally I lead EPA's Hispanic Employment Program (HEP) as the council chair overseeing 30+ Hispanic Employment Program Managers (HEPMs) from HQs and Regions from onboarding and training on targeted outreach, recruitment and retention efforts; identifying resources and data for barrier analysis; coordinating national programs and sponsorships at diversity conferences; communicating on Hispanic initiatives, hiring webinars; to supporting the development and implementation of the agency's DEIA strategy and Hispanic Outreach Strategy plans.
Since January 2005, I have worked for the Environmental Protection Agency in Washington, DC, in a variety of positions in different programs offices.
What is your highest level of education? What was your major?
I hold a BS in International Business Management from the University of New Haven and an MBA from Trinity Washington University with a focus on business administration.
What message would you like to send women who are considering college or a career in environmental protection?
Be a risk-taker and learn to explore new environments as you venture into new destinations. Become an agent of change within your community by stepping up and showcasing your inner leader.