Josephine B. Mascarenas Diaz is a highly accomplished professional with an impressive career spanning over three decades. Her diverse experience encompasses federal government service, emergency disaster management, information technology, real estate, and business management. As a proud Filipina Ms. Mascarenas Diaz has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to serving communities and excelling in various leadership roles throughout her career.
Federal Government Service
With 22 years of dedicated service at the Department of Homeland Security Transportation Security Administration (DHS/TSA), Ms. Mascarenas Diaz held the position of Chicago O’Hare International Airport DHS/TSA Scheduling Operations Officer. In this role, she skillfully managed the scheduling operations for over 1,000 federal officers, ensuring the smooth functioning of one of the nation’s busiest airports. For approximately 14 years prior, she served as an Executive Coordination Center Officer 24/7/365 handling daily operations and planned/unplanned emergency disaster incidents for 12 airports in Illinois and in filling in as the Officer-In-Charge on multiple occasions. Her expertise as a Federal Emergency Response Official has been invaluable during several Presidential disaster declarations, showcasing her exceptional leadership and crisis management skills.
Emergency Management and Training
Ms. Mascarenas Diaz’s passion for emergency management is evident through her extensive training and certifications. She is a FEMA Type III All Hazards NIMS/ICS/HSEEP specialist, an Illinois Professional Emergency Manager (IPEM), and an Illinois State Instructor. Her commitment to continuous learning is exemplified by her graduation from the FEMA National Emergency Management Basic Academy and completion of numerous training programs in incident management, communications, and continuity of operations.
As a dedicated volunteer with the Chicago Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), Ms. Mascarenas Diaz has contributed hundreds of hours to support local emergency response efforts. Her roles as a CERT Program Manager, Basic CERT Instructor, and Master Instructor Trainer demonstrate her passion for teaching emergency preparedness skills to diverse communities. She holds additional membership in the All Hazards Incidents Management Team (AHIMT) and Black Emergency Managers Association International (BEMA) of Washington DC.
Diverse Professional Experience
Before joining federal service, Ms. Mascarenas Diaz held key positions in various industries, showcasing her versatility and leadership skills. As the Human Resources Director, Technical Advisor, and Director of Marketing Communications for DataStructures, Inc., she successfully managed staff recruitment, multiple full cycle project management oversight, and policy/technical methodology development. She is a commissioned Illinois Notary Public.
As a Senior Consultant with Co-op Partners and throughout her career, Ms. Mascarenas Diaz has consistently excelled in customer relationship management, sales, marketing, public relations, and information technology throughout her career. She possesses proven expertise in project forecasting, contract negotiation, and continuous learning in areas such as employment law, human resources, financial services, data analytics, and cybersecurity.
Educational Background and Certifications
Ms. Mascarenas Diaz’s educational background includes studies at Harold Washington College, University of Illinois Chicago Illinois Fire Service Institute, and College of DuPage. She holds professional certifications as an Illinois Real Estate Managing Broker, Illinois Insurance Producer, Illinois Mortgage Producer, and FCC HAM Radio General Operator showcasing her commitment to professional development.
Community Engagement and Volunteerism
With a deep commitment to giving back, Ms. Mascarenas Diaz has actively participated in numerous volunteer initiatives. She has coordinated fundraising events, worked with foreign diplomatic Consulate Generals of Chicago, supported Vietnamese refugees, the LGBTQIA2S+, faith-based, and functional needs communities.
Ms. Mascarenas Diaz volunteers with the Red Cross, FEMA, COAD, VOAD, CPD, PrideArts, and CircaPintig, highlighting her passion for serving others across identities and cultures.
Awards and Recognition
Ms. Mascarenas Diaz’s dedication and achievements have been acknowledged through various accolades, including the 20 Years of Service Award from the Department of Homeland Security, the Illinois Professional Emergency Manager Accreditation, and being named an Outstanding Young Woman of America earlier in her early career.
Josephine B. Mascarenas Diaz’s impressive background, diverse skill set, and unwavering commitment to service establish her as an exceptional professional and community leader. Her contributions across federal government service, emergency management, and various industries exemplify her adaptability, expertise, and passion for making a positive impact within the AAPIN community and beyond
