This month, we’re proud to spotlight Nikcole M. Covarrubias, Role Player Coordinator supporting ATS operations at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers (FLETC) in Artesia, New Mexico.
In her role, Nikcole helps ensure role-player training scenarios run smoothly and effectively. She coordinates scenario setups and props, keeps role players accountable for their assigned times and locations, and assists with calculating the total hours worked by role-player personnel. Her work behind the scenes helps keep training organized and ensures role players are prepared to support each scenario.
One of Nikcole’s proudest accomplishments at ATS has been writing the script used for the Role Player interview presentation. She also assists her supervisor with conducting the interview presentation for prospective role players, helping introduce candidates to the position and what they can expect when joining the team.
Nikcole’s path to becoming a Role Player Coordinator began with firsthand experience. She previously worked as a role player before being offered the opportunity to advance into her current position.
“I was happy to accept the position because it would provide a more stable and reliable income for myself and my children,” she shared.
And family is at the center of Nikcole’s life. She is a proud single mother of three children, ages 16, 15, and 9. Her oldest is in AP Art and applying for art scholarships, her middle child has an entrepreneurial spirit and has started several personal ventures—including a cupcake business—and her youngest participates in a gifted program and is excelling in math and science.
“My children are my greatest accomplishment in this life,” Nikcole said. “They are my ultimate pride and joy.”
When she isn’t working or spending time with her children, there’s a good chance you’ll find Nikcole in the gym. A former competitive powerlifter, she has earned both first- and second-place finishes in powerlifting competitions. Although she no longer competes, she continues powerlifting training—and despite standing just 5’3″, she can lift more than 300 pounds!
Nikcole and her family also enjoy spending time outdoors with their two puppies, doing yard work, taking walks in the park, and roller skating together.
One philosophy that guides Nikcole both personally and professionally is simple: “Progress, not perfection.”
For Nikcole, those words are a reminder that striving for perfection can sometimes make us overlook how far we have already come. She believes recognizing progress is an important part of continuing to learn and grow.
That same mindset is reflected in something else Nikcole cares deeply about: equality and appreciating the differences each person brings to a team. She believes equality does not require everyone to be the same; instead, people should be respected and accepted for their differences. By recognizing one another’s strengths, colleagues can support each other, learn from one another, and accomplish more together.
Nikcole also appreciates the teamwork she has experienced at ATS.
“I’m impressed by the work ATS does and their amazing communication skills,” she shared.
Looking ahead, Nikcole would love to return to the Washington, D.C., area for a visit after having lived there for a short time and enjoying the area. And if you ask her for the one item she absolutely cannot live without, the answer is easy: her phone.
Nikcole’s dedication to her family, commitment to personal growth, strength—both inside and outside the gym—and willingness to support those around her make her a valued member of the ATS team.
Thank you, Nikcole, for everything you do to support ATS, our role players, and the FLETC mission in Artesia!
