This presentation will describe the career trajectory and evolution of interests of an academic, PhD chemist as he explored an ‘alternative’ career path in the government. Prof. Cahill took a sabbatical from his faculty position at The George Washington University and, through the American Institute of Physics’ State Department Science Fellowship, spent a year in the Bureau of International Security and Nonproliferation’s Office of Weapons of Mass Destruction-Terrorism. This experience provided him with some keen insight for those wishing to explore careers in the government, federal agencies, or other forums at the intersection of science and technology policy. As such, he will present a brief overview of his path to the position, his experiences therein, and hopefully foster an open discussion regarding opportunities and suggestions for engagement.