After high school, I attended a tech school, learning about CAD -- Computer Aided Design, and also CNC -- Computer Numerical Control, which takes the CAD information and actually manufactures the object, following the CAD instructions. I did very well in my training, if I say so myself. The various teachers praised my quick mind -- even the ones that weren't ogling my body. As I was about to graduate, the president of the school called me into her office.
"Since you're the top of your graduating class, Ms. Renfold, I've referred you to a major CAD/CNC company that does military work. I can also arrange an interview there for you, if you want it," she informed me. "I worked there at one time, and they are on the cutting edge of the industry and had the latest equipment even back then. I can't imagine what strides they may have made since then. Do you have a problem working on military contracts?"
"On the contrary," I replied. "I think I'd find the work interesting and it would certainly expand my education. I'd love to interview there, and thank you for this opportunity!" It didn't hurt any that the company was just outside the city on the same side where I lived so it'd be an easy drive. I was given the address and drove out to meet with their personnel department.
Pulling into the outer lot, I noticed that there were not many cars present. All around the property, there was a high fence with barbed wire on it. I guessed that since they worked on military contracts, such security was necessary. I fixed my skirt and checked my hair and headed to the front gate.
Following the directions stated on the sign at the gate, I pressed the buzzer, and noted two video cameras aimed at me.
"Yes? May I help you?" said a voice on the speaker.
I tried a friendly wave at one of the cameras. "Yes, I have an appointment with the personnel department."
"Name, please?"
"I'm Miss Renfold," I replied.
There followed a sound like 'BBBBBBBbzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz' coming from the gate.
The gate opened, and as I entered, it immediately closed behind me.
A woman met me in the lobby, and escorted me to a conference room. "Please wait here, Miss Renfold. Someone from personnel will be here very soon," she said, smiling. When she left, I looked around the room and again saw cameras watching me. I tried not to be nervous.
After I'd waited a short time, a woman from personnel came in caring a folder and greeted me. My jaw dropped a little in admiration. She was so attractive that she could've been a leading actress! I tried to look professional and not salivate too much, but my heart was going pitta-pat in my chest. When she sat next to me, her scent... was it perfume? body spray? Just her natural essence?... wafted into my nostrils and it was a little more difficult to remain professional.
I'd noticed both of the women I'd met so far wore photo IDs, which gave me a reason to stare briefly at her chest -- at least, I tried to keep the stare brief. "Hello, my name is Darlene. Before we get started, I must inform you that there'll be a security clearance investigation background check that is required to be performed on you. Do you feel you can pass it? Is there anything in your past that might prevent you passing?"
I thought for a moment and answered, " I feel I can certainly pass a security check. I have nothing weird in my past of which I'm aware. I'm so plain and clean that I squeak." Little did she know about my private fantasies, but I wasn't about to mention those.
Smiling, she opened the folder and read it. "Yes, you seem to have a clean background as far as this preliminary report that I have, and your grades are very good -- no, they are excellent!" In a very professional manner, she finger printed me, stating that my finger prints had to be sent to the FBI.
The remainder of the interview went well, and I then was given a brief tour. I noticed as I was guided into areas, as she announced my presence, work would stop. As I entered, things were covered and monitors were flicked to screen savers. In one area, she said, "If you're hired, this is the area in which you might be working. This is the most advanced CAD/CNC equipment in the entire country," she stated proudly.
When the tour concluded, she led me back to the lobby, and watched as I walked to the gate, which buzzed open as I approached. Getting into my car, I was excited! It looked like a great place to work! And all those lovely women! "Hmmm... did I see any men at all?" I mentally asked myself, and the answer seemed to be 'not one' which may have been strange, but I sure appreciated the scenery anyway.
However, 1 week went by, then 2 weeks, then 3 weeks -- and I heard nothing. I was very saddened and disappointed. But finally the phone rang, and it was the owner's secretary. "Miss Renfold? We finally received your full security clearance, and the job is yours if you still want it. If so, can you come in Monday morning for intake processing?"