Transportation security often brings to mind images of airport checkpoints and uniformed officers. However, behind the scenes, a dedicated group of professionals works tirelessly to ensure the safety and security of all modes of transportation: Transportation Security Inspectors. These inspectors, often operating away from the public eye, are critical to the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) mission to protect the nation’s transportation systems.
Transportation Security Inspectors play a vital role in safeguarding aviation, cargo, and surface transportation. They conduct thorough inspections, assessments, and investigations of various transportation entities to pinpoint potential weaknesses and evaluate their adherence to security regulations. Overseeing these crucial frontline personnel are Supervisory Transportation Security Inspectors (STSIs), who are responsible for equipping inspectors with the necessary resources and guidance to excel in their field operations.
Erin Moran, based at Miami International Airport, and Chris Suski, operating from Dallas Love Field, are two such STSIs leading teams of inspectors. Suski emphasizes the extensive planning involved in their roles: “I have to anticipate the needs of TSA headquarters, my federal security directors, and assistant federal security directors for inspections. This involves strategizing our work plans and investigations well in advance – not just for the immediate future, but several quarters out. It’s about creating a robust plan while also maintaining the flexibility to adapt to unforeseen circumstances, like budget uncertainties.”
Moran highlights the often-understated importance of STSIs, stating, “They are the true champions of regulatory compliance across the nation. We act as liaisons for both external partners and stakeholders within the TSA.”
Miami Supervisory Transportation Security Inspector Erin Moran ensures regulatory compliance and effective transportation security.
Addressing the Foremost Threats to Transportation Security
Both Moran and Suski concur that the insider threat represents a significant and evolving danger to aviation security. Moran elaborates, “I believe the potential scale of the insider threat is not fully grasped. Recent work on access control and badging, coupled with concerning incidents, suggests insiders could pose the greatest risk, especially given the current economic climate with post-COVID inflation.” She further suggests that complacency and economic pressures could make individuals with inside knowledge or access more susceptible to illicit activities.
Suski adds another layer of concern: the unknown threat. “We are limited by our current knowledge,” he states. “It’s the threats we haven’t yet conceived of that are truly alarming.” This highlights the need for constant vigilance and proactive security measures to anticipate and counter emerging threats.
The Growing Importance of Cybersecurity in Transportation Inspections
Cybersecurity is rapidly becoming a central focus within transportation security. Suski notes, “Cybersecurity vulnerabilities exist across all transportation modes – cargo, aviation, and surface.” He points out the evolution of security concerns, from an initial focus on aviation post-9/11 to the subsequent recognition of cargo and surface transportation as potential targets.
“Never did I imagine that cybersecurity would become such a significant aspect of this role,” Suski admits. “However, it’s undeniably a priority for the coming years as we work to effectively address these challenges. The goal is to establish robust cyber defenses and integrate them into our routine security protocols.”
Transportation Security Inspector Chris Suski conducting an inspection at an airport gate, ensuring adherence to security protocols.
Fostering Leadership and Diversity within TSA
Moran advocates for greater representation of women in STSI and other leadership roles within TSA and the broader federal government. “While progress is being made, there’s significant untapped potential,” Moran observes. “Numerous talented women are well-suited for STSI and inspector positions. Perseverance and competence are key to succeeding and making your voice heard.”
Suski emphasizes the importance of vulnerable leadership. He believes supervisors should acknowledge their imperfections and take responsibility for mistakes. “It’s crucial for teams to understand that missteps are learning opportunities, not grounds for punishment,” he states. “How can we learn and improve from errors, such as missed deadlines? Encouraging calculated risk-taking and viewing failure as a pathway to growth is essential. Perfection is unattainable, but learning from setbacks is crucial for team development.”
Suski also stresses the significance of knowledge sharing among leaders. “Hoarding knowledge is detrimental,” he argues. “Erin and I prioritize open communication to prepare the next generation of capable leaders to assume responsibility when we retire. It’s vital to maintain a broad perspective of the entire organization, not just immediate tasks, to strategically position oneself for future opportunities and contribute effectively.”
For individuals considering a career as a Transportation Security Inspector or within TSA, Suski’s advice is direct: “Apply persistently! Don’t be discouraged by initial rejections. Use each application and interview as a learning experience. If offered a position, thoroughly evaluate the details to ensure it aligns with your career goals. Hesitation should not be a barrier; take the leap and explore the possibilities.”
Based on insights from Don Wagner, TSA Strategic Communications & Public Affairs.
