Climbing the Customs Ladder.

San Francisco's port director among first women in male-dominated profession

"It's only important to be first if there's a second," Alice Rigdon said of her role as one of the first women to ascend the professional ranks at the U.S. Customs Service.

Today as port director for customs in San Francisco, Rigdon is proud of the women who have followed her along the same career path. The young women who are joining U.S. Customs today, Rigdon said, are "absolutely heartening" in their drive, intelligence and dedication.

Rigdon was appointed to the San Francisco post in January 1996. She is responsible for operations of the city's airport and seaport and …