WATCH

The Federal Background Investigation and Security Clearance Processes:
What Aspiring Appointees Need to Know

Originally aired:
Friday, October 30

12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. (EDT)

One of the most critical steps in the presidential personnel hiring process is the federal background investigation. All federal employees—including presidential appointees—undergo this process to ensure their suitability for government service. We are pleased to offer this final program in our Presidential Personnel Series to provide valuable information to help you understand and navigate this important step.

We are joined by two speakers uniquely qualified to shed light on the multiple issues involved in federal security clearances and suitability, having both served as high-ranking officials at the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM):

Paul T. Conway, former Chief of Staff, OPM, and veteran of four Presidential Administrations

Kathy Dillaman, former Associate Director, Federal Investigative Services Division (FISD), OPM

You’ll learn:

  • What to expect from the federal background check and how long it takes to complete
  • Which forms and processes are used for different types of federal positions
  • Which agencies conduct the investigation and what the process involves
  • The personal, professional, and financial information you can begin gathering now to prepare for future service in a presidential administration.