see also: in May 2003:   CBP officers at Otay Mesa seize over 3,300 pounds of marijuana   FDA and CBP Announce Steps to Streamline Collection of Information on Food Imports   Sweden and the United States Jointly Implement the Container Security Initiative and Begin to Target and Pre-Screen Cargo Destined for U.S.   Interagency Working Group Solves Communication Interoperability Problems   Border Patrol Agents Seize 729 Pounds of Marijuana (pdf - 16 KB.)   Customs and Border Protection, American Petroleum Institute Endorse Standards for Importer Self-Assesment Program Accounts ...more on cbp.gov:   Press Officers   CBP News Releases

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Washington, D.C.--Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Linda Jacksta, director of the Systems Engineering Division in the Office of Information and Technology, is one of the top five finalists for the 2003 Women in Technology (WIT) leadership award, government category. Nominees were selected for their outstanding accomplishments in the areas of mentoring, entrepreneurship, and technology.

"We are delighted that Linda has been selected as a finalist for this prestigious professional recognition," said Woody Hall, assistant commissioner for the Office of Information and Technology and Chief Information Officer for CBP. "She is one of our finest-bright, energetic and can-do. I am not surprised that WIT agrees."

Linda Jacksta is the director of the Systems Engineering Division. In this capacity, Jacksta serves the Commissioner, Chief Information Officer, and the Executive Director, Infrastructure Services, in leading and directing an organization of more than 100 technical and professional staff.

The work of System Engineering is essential to fulfilling CBP's priority mission to prevent terrorists and terrorist weapons from entering the United States. The division provides support for system hardware, software, and databases for more than 900 CBP locations. This support includes evaluation, design, development, maintenance, testing, integration, and implementation for all CBP system and hardware.

Other nominees for the government category include women in technology from the U.S. Department of the Treasury, United States Coast Guard, Department of Homeland Security, and the National Reconnaissance Office.

The winner of the award will be announced on May 15, 2003, at the Fourth Annual WIT Leadership Awards Program to be held at the Sheraton Premiere, Tysons Corner.