This month, we shine the spotlight on Alex, whose journey from HR Generalist to Facility Security Officer (FSO) and Insider Threat Program Senior Official (ITPSO) highlights the opportunities for career development within our company.
Alex joined AnaVation in May 2019 as an HR Generalist and Assistant Facility Security Officer (AFSO). With a strong foundation in human resources and a Professional in Human Resources (PHR) certification, Alex initially had limited experience in the security field. However, her curiosity and determination to learn soon set her on a path that would redefine her career.
“I realized that security was the path I wanted to pursue,” Alex reflects. “AnaVation was extremely supportive of this transition.” With the company’s rapid growth, Charles Q., the then-FSO, was looking to pass on his responsibilities to focus on strategic initiatives. Alex’s manager, Rena B., also wholeheartedly supported her transfer.
Alex immersed herself in the world of security. She attended local security conferences, participated in countless online trainings, joined webinars, studied instructional videos, and became a member of a national society for security professionals. Her dedication paid off in August 2020, when Charles appointed her as AnaVation’s new FSO. A few months later, Todd G. passed her the ITPSO title. A quote from Alex’s high school basketball coach resonates deeply with her journey at AnaVation: “Luck is when preparation meets opportunity.” This philosophy underscores her achievements at AnaVation, where preparation and opportunity have combined to propel her career forward.
The security landscape is ever-evolving, with new challenges constantly emerging. Alex remains committed to staying ahead of the curve. She attends weekly trainings to keep up with the latest developments and regularly collaborates with her security network to brainstorm process improvements and policy enhancements. Her dedication culminated in earning the Industrial Security Professional (ISP) certification in August 2023. Alex credits AnaVation’s training budget for enabling her to pursue various security trainings and certifications. This investment reflects the company’s commitment to continuous learning and growth.
Outside of work, Alex’s passion for sports remains a significant part of her life. Reconnecting with former basketball teammates led to her participation in various sports leagues, including kickball, basketball, softball, volleyball, dodgeball, tennis, and pickleball. In 2023, Alex took on the role of organizing AnaVation sports teams, successfully coordinating softball, kickball, and volleyball teams, as well as a company bowling night. She also enjoys taking her 2 dogs and 2 cats to the lake on a long weekend. Riding jet skis, going on walks through the wooded community, sitting on the dock as the sun is setting, playing card games, and watching scary movies is her ideal weekend.
Alex’s favorite part of her job is the trust placed in her to ensure AnaVation’s security program’s success. She takes pride in crafting monthly security educational emails, incorporating contests to engage employees and make learning about security enjoyable. “Any time I feel as if I was able to break the stigma that security is boring is a big win for me!” she exclaims.
Alex’s journey at AnaVation is marked by the support and encouragement of her colleagues and supervisors. Alex recognizes Rena as a true hero for her career. Rena selflessly allowed Alex to move from her position in the HR department to running the security department. She has been nothing but encouraging, ensuring Alex receives the training and help needed to excel in her role. Alex always feels supported by Rena, knowing she has her back and trusts her to get the job done right. Rena has consistently provided great advice and recommendations to ensure the success of AnaVation’s security department. Not to mention, Alex also admires the leadership qualities of Charles, the personable nature of Todd, and the exceptional work ethic of Lauren T.
Reflecting on her time at AnaVation, Alex expresses deep gratitude for the company’s supportive environment. “AnaVation has always treated me well, and I feel like I am appreciated here,” she says. The company’s employee-focused and mission-driven culture, coupled with the kindness and willingness of her coworkers to help, has reinforced her belief in AnaVation’s vision and values.
As Alex continues to lead AnaVation’s security efforts and inspire her colleagues, her story serves as a powerful reminder of what is possible when preparation meets opportunity.
