"As a representative of the USPTO overseas, I work with people of all different nationalities and backgrounds."
What sparked your interest in becoming an IP attaché?
I began my career at the USPTO as a trademark examining attorney. I work at the USPTO because the agency is at the forefront of U.S. commerce, both on a policy level and in practical terms. Innovation drives our economy, and consumers all over the world rely on American branding. I am proud to be part of such an influential U.S. government agency.
I currently serve as an IP attaché for the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and also previously served as an IP attaché for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. I advocate for U.S. government IP policy, interests, and initiatives; assist U.S. businesses with issues involving IP rights; work to improve IP protection by conducting training and outreach programs with host governments on IP laws and policy; help to secure high-quality IP provisions in international agreements and host country laws; and work to monitor the implementation of these provisions.
What is your favorite part of working as an IP attaché?
There’s no such thing as a typical work day. In my work, I've trained judges in Morocco one day and a few days later met with the Egyptian Ministry of Health to talk about pharmaceutical patents. A few days after that, I lead a discussion on IP issues at an economic policy dialogue with Emiratis in Abu Dhabi.
What advice would you give someone who may not be aware of the IP Attaché Program?
I recommend that anyone interested in IP should work for the USPTO. There are so many options there, and the USPTO is really good about encouraging employees to expand their horizons with all types of career development opportunities.
What do you appreciate most about working at the USPTO?
I've worked for the USPTO for over a decade. As a trademark examining attorney, as an IP attaché in MENA, and now again as an IP attaché in the UAE—I feel incredibly empowered. My supervisors at the USPTO trust me to carry out important programs and policy initiatives. I also have the privilege of working with people of all different nationalities and backgrounds, and the relationships I've cultivated are invaluable.
There’s a reason the USPTO is one of the best U.S. government agencies to work for!