Am I really a diamond in the rough? A TSO with a college degree!
The fact is, I have worked with TSOs over the years with BAs, MAs, PhDs....etc. I have worked with people who have worked for large companies such as IBM, 3M, Imation, Wells Fargo. I have worked with chemists, computer programmers, retired police officers, former pilots. I have worked with people that have went on to be police officers, pilots, Customs / Immigration Officers, Secret Service Agents, FAMs, financial consultants....
The TSA is probably one of the most diverse workforces in the country. A lot of things happened post-911, including changes in the economy and lay-offs from work.
My experience has been similar. Many TSOs are retired military, or folks who have taken advantage of a corporate buyout. Are we "underemployed"? Perhaps, but keep in mind that some of us were successful in our earlier careers, and no longer need to work full-time!
Employers who offer health insurance, life insurance, 401K, etc., to part-time employees are few and far between, making the TSA an attractive option.
