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Kathleen Barcenas

@kathleenbarcenas

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Strategic intelligence professional with expertise in fraud prevention.

United States

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What I'm looking for

I am looking for a role that values innovation and collaboration, where I can leverage my expertise in intelligence and investigations to drive impactful security initiatives.

I am a strategic intelligence and investigations professional with over 10 years of experience leading high-impact fraud prevention initiatives and conducting global investigations. My career has been defined by my ability to build cross-functional partnerships that advance security objectives, and I have a proven track record of training teams and managing large-scale programs in fast-paced, high-stakes environments.

Throughout my tenure at the U.S. Department of State, I have directed over 40 major investigations annually, resulting in high-profile arrests and the dismantling of significant criminal networks. I have modernized training programs for special agents and investigators, developed human trafficking detection protocols, and collaborated with international law enforcement to create predictive fraud models. My commitment to technical innovation has led me to pilot AI tools and new communication platforms that enhance productivity across regions.

In addition to my investigative work, I have a strong background in community development and education, having led initiatives in rural West Africa with the Peace Corps. My diverse experiences have equipped me with a unique perspective on global security challenges, and I am passionate about leveraging my skills to make a meaningful impact in the field of intelligence and investigations.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Current

Intelligence & Investigations Specialist

Current

U.S. Department of State

Jan 2016 - Present (9 years 6 months)

Led and supported cross-border investigations into document fraud, human trafficking, and transnational crime. Provided intelligence analysis and program oversight to more than 40 U.S. embassies and consulates across the Western Hemisphere.

Intelligence Analysis Cross Border Investigations Fraud Prevention Human Trafficking Prevention Open Source Intelligence AI Tools Data Analysis

Passport Adjudication & Fraud Prevention Specialist

U.S. Department of State

Jun 2014 - Dec 2015 (1 year 6 months)

Reviewed and adjudicated complex U.S. passport applications while identifying fraud and coordinating with national security partners to mitigate threats. Conducted 90+ fraud investigations annually, collaborating with law enforcement and intelligence analysts to ensure accuracy and prevent misuse of U.S. travel documents.

Passport Adjudication Fraud Investigation National Security Risk Management Data Analysis Training Development Process Improvement Stakeholder Engagement

Project Manager, Trainer, and Community Development Leader

Peace Corps

Aug 2011 - Nov 2013 (2 years 3 months)

Led agricultural, educational, and public health initiatives in rural West Africa, coordinating with government and NGO stakeholders to drive community development. Founded and managed a food security farm, increasing crop production by 250% and securing over 20 grants.

Project Management Community Development Public Health Radio Outreach Stakeholder Management

Anti-Money Laundering Analyst

Citibank

Aug 2010 - Aug 2011 (1 year)

Investigated suspicious financial transactions and fraud across Latin America, supporting regulatory compliance and anti-terror financing efforts. Authored over 100 Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs), leading to escalations involving possible money laundering and international trafficking.

Anti Money Laundering (AML)Regulatory Compliance Suspicious Activity Reports Data Analysis