Preserving And Protecting History For Future Generations

June Gallegos at Rocky Mountain National Park

Property of June Gallegos

What is your job title?
June Gallegos, Archive Specialist, Technical Information Center (TIC), Denver Service Center

What experience and education do you have?
I started working in TIC as a contractor in August 1999. I was initially hired to prepare photographic materials for archiving. Later in addition to working on the photographs, I began assisting with the management of the aerial photos, graphic files, and DSC Project Information Files (PIFS). I also provided reference services to both internal and external customers for the TIC collection. I served as the Contract Lead representing ETIC Professionals, LLC, for 12 years. In January 2010, I became a Student Trainee (Archives Technician) through what was known then as the Student Career Experience Program (SCEP). In 2014, after graduating with my Associates Degree in Business Administration, I became a permanent Federal employee.

What is a typical day like?
In working with archiving records, there is never a dull moment and I learn something new almost every day. One week I might keep busy processing reference requests for TIC materials for not only NPS employees but also members of the public. Another week, it might be working on cataloging photographs or working with PIFs. Another week might find me assisting our Volunteer, Dr. Larry Van Horn, who retired as the DSC Cultural Anthropologist in 2008. While another week I might work on preparing shipments of DSC records for transfer to the Federal Records Center.

What career advice would you give to someone who wants to follow a similar path?
Working for the National Park Service is like a dream come true for many of us and therefore I cherish the opportunity and never take it for granted. Always go the extra step in everything you do. Don’t be intimidated by all the requirements required to get your “foot in the door.” You will likely feel discouraged when you hit a wall trying to get in. Don’t give up; move forward and try again. Work hard and along the way people will believe in you. I am very thankful and fortunate to have had the support and encouragement of several people. Be positive and do whatever is necessary to help the cause. Go for it!

What is one of the bigger projects you have worked on over the years and what about that project might surprise people?
I have been lucky enough to get to travel and help other NPS offices with their records projects. I assisted the Rivers and Trails office in Washington DC to catalog a former employee’s files. In Grand Teton I helped with a project to index and label their library collection and in the Southeast Regional office – Architecture Division, I assisted in organizing and inventorying 200 linear feet amount of records.

Anything else you'd like to add?
I love seeing the light at the end of the tunnel and even though the light seems dim at times, I continue to move towards the light! It’s a great feeling of accomplishment helping customers find what they need and also seeing a project from start to completion. From the very beginning, I have been proud to be part of an organization like the National Park Service that is so valuable and respected.