Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Languages
Timeline
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Kevin Negron Gorritz

Corozal

Summary

Dynamic Plant Protection Officer with USDA expertise in pest identification and integrated pest management. Proven track record in enhancing crop safety and preventing invasive species through K9-assisted inspections. Skilled in data collection and educational outreach, fostering teamwork and collaboration to achieve compliance and safeguard agricultural integrity.

Overview

4
4
years of professional experience

Work History

Plant Protection Technician

USDA
07.2021 - Current
  • Assisted in monitoring plant health and identifying pest management needs.
  • Supported implementation of integrated pest management strategies to enhance crop safety.
  • Participated in routine inspections to assess environmental conditions affecting plants.
  • Collaborated with team members to maintain accurate records of pest control applications.
  • Conduct K9-assisted inspections at airports, mail facilities (USPS, FedEx, UPS), cargo, and maritime ports to detect prohibited agricultural materials.
  • Apply safeguarding measures to high-risk commodities, preventing the introduction of invasive pests and pathogens.
  • Deliver outreach presentations to stakeholders and passengers, increasing awareness of USDA regulations.
  • Assist with weekly canine training, certification exercises, and preparation of training aids.
  • Train and mentor new technicians on inspection protocols, data entry, and reporting requirements.
  • Perform contraband inspections; prepare diagnostic requests for laboratory analysis.
  • Conducted compliance checks ensuring APHIS sticker visibility on inspected baggage.
  • Coordinated with TSA at security checkpoints to seize prohibited agricultural items.
  • Supported the African Swine Fever (ASF) Emergency Response, seizing and regulating swine products to prevent disease introduction from high-risk regions
  • Assisted with data entry, log preparation, and inventory restocking.
  • Assisted PHSS Officers in inspections of private and military aircraft (413 inspections), ensuring compliance with federal quarantine regulations and preventing entry of high-risk pests and diseases.

Education

Bachelor of Science - Biology

Interamerican University of Puerto Rico
Bayamón, Puerto Rico
06-2021

Skills

  • Chemical handling

  • Data collection

  • Plant pathology

  • Pest identification

  • Educational outreach

  • Safety training

  • Teamwork and collaboration

  • Problem-solving

Languages

Spanish
Native or Bilingual
English
Professional Working

Timeline

Plant Protection Technician

USDA
07.2021 - Current

Bachelor of Science - Biology

Interamerican University of Puerto Rico

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Kevin Negron Gorritz