Name: Charlotte Melton

Q: Where in NOAA do you work now?
A: I currently work in the Office of Finance and Administration for Paul F. Roberts, NOAA Chief Financial Officer/Chief Administrative Officer

Q: When did you begin your work with NOAA?
A: I actually started working for the Coast and Geodetic Survey in July 1964 for the Office of Director, Scientific and Technical Publications. When NOAA was established, I was an Administrative Clerk, GS-6 in the office of Administrative and Technical Services, Graphics Branch working for John Smiles.

Q: Looking back, what events stand out as the most memorable during your time with NOAA?
A: As part of NOAA's administrative family for 30 years, the event that holds the most significance for me was Hurricane Andrew in 1992. For the first time, the Office of Administration (now the Office of Finance and Administration) was called upon to support a major rescue mission for NOAA employees and their families. Because of the total devastation that existed in Florida, people could not receive mail, cash checks or buy necessities and were afraid to leave their homes because of looting in the impacted areas. In addition, NOAA facilities in the Miami area were damaged and employees could not report to work. We were called upon to provide employee assistance as well as supporting both personal and real property rehabiltation. Within hours after the hurricane hit, OFA employees were on their way to Miami with imprest funds, compressors, and clothing to provide assistance .

Q: From your point of view, what have been the most significant changes NOAA has experienced during the past 30 years?
A: During the last 30 years, NOAA has grown significantly in size, budget, and responsibility. However, through the use of technology and the way we now communicate and share information, we have grown smaller.

This page updated on: Monday, 07-Jan-2002 21:41:56 GMT
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