At AnaVation, we believe our greatest strength lies in our people, who make our mission possible every day. Through our AnaVator Spotlight series, we celebrate those who exemplify what it means to be an AnaVator and their unique journeys at our company. This month, we’re proud to feature Melaina, our Assistant Facility Security Officer, who has spent the past three years growing her career, empowering others, and contributing to the strong culture that defines AnaVation.
Since joining AnaVation in 2022, Melaina has become an integral part of our Security team, serving as the Assistant Facility Security Officer (AFSO). In her role as AFSO, Melaina supports day-to-day security operations, helping ensure compliance and safety across the organization. She has had many opportunities to develop her skills in the field through her work with the MSS Conference team and shadowing her supervisor. Always eager to learn, Melaina is currently working toward earning her Industrial Security Oversight Credential (ISOC), a professional certification that demonstrates her dedication to advancing in her field.
For Melaina, AnaVation has been more than just a workplace—it’s been a place to grow. Her growth at AnaVation has been shaped by both mentorship and hands-on experience. She credits her supervisor, Alex B, FSO & ITPSO, as a key influence in her professional journey. “Alex has taught me so many invaluable things,” Melaina said. “She is always supportive of my work and provides me with opportunities to grow professionally. She is professional, knowledgeable, and has always offered a guiding hand. I hope to emulate her in my professional work. She has shown great understanding and flexibility, which has helped me balance work and personal responsibilities. She makes sure to accommodate me as much as possible.” Melaina’s appreciation for teamwork and support runs deep. She also mentioned how Lauren T has been a rock for her during conferences and while working with the MSS team. “Lauren has always been supportive and helped me ensure that we are keeping things secure and moving forward. All the while encouraging me to grow and be my best”.
The aspect she enjoys the most about her job is connecting with others. “My favorite part is getting to interact with so many different people and getting to educate them at the same time,” she shared. “Security can be a complex field, but I like being able to break things down and explain them in a way that helps our fellow AnaVators perform their best and safest.” When asked what’s kept her at AnaVation, Melaina didn’t hesitate: the company culture. “I would describe our culture as balanced. We love to work hard and play hard here at AnaVation. Also, we are a close-knit company, even with the number of employees and differing work locations”, she says. In addition, she has taken advantage of the professional development opportunities, conference participation, and mentorship programs available at the company. She has also benefited from the social events and giveaways that AnaVation hosts.
Outside of work, Melaina’s creative energy truly shines. She’s an avid artist and crafter, spending her free time junk-journaling, drawing, crocheting, and trying new hobbies that allow her to tap into her creative side. “Crochet started as a way to keep my hands busy while watching TV or listening to audiobooks, but it quickly became a way to create for my friends and family. I’ve crocheted plush toys, scarves, hats, and blankets.” Her creativity is matched by her love of music and organization. She’s been in band, chorus, and orchestra throughout school and learned to play the trumpet, flute, and violin. She describes herself as a highly organized person. “I make lists for my lists and keep my family afloat with our calendar of events,” she joked. She also enjoys reading fantasy, horror, and mystery/thriller books. She looks up to TJ Klune, who is the author of her favorite book, “The House in the Cerulean Sea,” and who is an advocate for the LGBTQ+ community in the DMV area.
When she’s not working or crafting, you’ll find Melaina on a weekend trip with her fiancé, family, or friends, or relaxing by the beach—her happy place, no matter the season. If there’s one thing that brings her joy year after year, it’s her family’s Christmas tradition: “We always do a really big dinner and games. I look forward to that every year.” And if you ever need a fun fact to spark a conversation, she is a huge Taylor Swift fan. “I know her entire discography by heart and attended the ERAs Tour back in June 2022 in Pittsburgh!”
At AnaVation, we’re proud to have talented, dedicated, and creative individuals like Melaina. Her story is a powerful example of the culture we cultivate at AnaVation—one where people feel supported, valued, and empowered to do meaningful work. She embodies what it means to be an AnaVator—growing through collaboration, leading with passion, and always finding joy in both work and life.
