After dedicating 16 years to federal service, Azara T. found herself navigating an unexpected career transition when a federal agency shutdown and workforce reduction took effect on July 1, 2025.
Most recently, Azara served as a Senior Program Manager (Program Analyst) with the American Schools and Hospitals Abroad (ASHA) program at the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), where she spent over seven years managing a global portfolio of federal construction grants. In this role, she oversaw the full lifecycle of awards — from solicitation through closeout — supporting the construction and equipping of schools, hospitals, and libraries around the world.
“The experience was a real shock,” Azara shared. “Like many others, I had to quickly step back, reassess, and figure out how to pivot into a new role or career path.”
During this transition, Azara connected with the Federal Workforce Career Center (FWCC) and found critical support through their services. She was especially impressed by the responsiveness and care demonstrated by FWCC staff, who quickly understood the unique challenges facing displaced federal employees.
“FWCC adapted their services to better support a highly educated workforce that needed more targeted assistance,” she explained. “One consultant even conducted a mock interview with me on the final day of his own job. That level of dedication made a meaningful difference during a very challenging period and helped me get back on my feet much faster.”
Azara has recently accepted a position as Grants and Office Manager with the American Academy of Pediatrics. In this role, she will oversee office operations, recruiting, budget management, and grants administration and compliance, while strengthening internal grants management systems.
“This role allows me to apply my federal grants expertise in a healthcare setting that directly advances child health and wellbeing,” Azara said.