Employee Spotlight: Christina Infelise
As a results-driven professional with a comprehensive background in communications, marketing, strategic planning, and quality assurance, Christina Infelise is highly recognized for her expertise in executing process improvements, ensuring quality control, performing comprehensive research, and analyzing extensive data.
In her role as Deputy Program Manager for CEI&HRSS and Project Lead for NICoE TBI Portal, Christina engages with many teams to oversee the tactical duties, maintain focus, and ensure that all the required administrative tasks are accomplished on time and within scope. But first and foremost, she is known for engaging team members one on one and working hard to motivate and encourage them to pursue their personal and professional goals.
We sat down with Christina to learn more about her, her values, and what she loves about working at TIAG.
How long have you worked at TIAG and what is your role?
My first day with TIAG was 9/21/20 and several team members started alongside me. Although we were initially placed on separate projects, we continually elevated from day one.
You’re located in our Charleston office—what do you love about living in Charleston?
Some of my favorite Charleston moments include enjoying the breweries with amazing rooftop views, spending time on the beach, or relieving stress by taking a swing at things at The Break Room! Charleston is an incredibly dog friendly city and taking in the fresh air and time at te beach with my dog provides a balance between work and play.
What’s something most people don’t know about you?
I am a skilled craftsman and carpenter specializing in custom builds and restoration. I also studied voice and dance through college and dreamed of performing on Broadway. When I became aware that I wasn’t quite talented enough to score the lead role of show, I figured I could at least build the show’s set.
Favorite line from a movie, or life motto/mantra?
“Dum Vivimus Servimus.” This is a Presbyterian College motto that means, “while we live, we serve.” I believe these words to my very core and that life’s greatest joys are found in what we are able to give to and do for others.
What does your job entail? What do you enjoy most?
On the surface, my role includes engagement with the various teams to oversee tactical duties, keep teams focused, and ensure that all the required administrative tasks are accomplished on time and within scope. But what I enjoy the most is the ability to engage with people one on one and learn what motivates them. It’s an honor to be a part of their leadership team and I see it as a responsibility to serve them and assist in their pursuit of personal and professional goals.
This is the best job opportunity that I never knew I always wanted. It’s so special and valuable—I want to do whatever it takes to make the most of this opportunity I’ve been given. The contract is special and the mission of our projects is meaningful. In 20-years, I’ve never worked somewhere this amazing. It’s a privilege to work for this company, in this location, and with this team.
What motivates you to wake up and go to work?
Well, I’ve always been a pretty big fan of paying my bills, feeding my dog, and putting food on the table… but in all seriousness, it’s the people. You can have the most skilled and intelligent people in a workspace, but if they aren’t also kind and able to connect with others, the atmosphere in an office can feel heavy. I genuinely look forward to collaborating and working with the people in our office. There’s an array of personalities and interests.
What’s been your favorite project or experience at TIAG so far?
I have really enjoyed the opportunity to brag on my team members through nominations for various awards. Advocating for and motivating people is something I find equally humbling and exciting. We have some true rock stars on the three teams I lead, and I love being able to write about their amazing qualities.
From a project standpoint, the first TBI Portal release to production I experienced remains an absolute favorite. Not only was it a dual release of a Git migration and a NICoE referrals release, it was the first time I saw the entire team “in action”—coordinating a flawless execution of IT prowess. Everyone involved in the release seemed to be having fun while executing their part of the release and it was a balance of attention to detail and sarcasm. I felt as though the entire night was a positive sign of things to come.
Ten years ago, where did you think you’d be now?
A sports analyst/writer. It was one of those things I always wanted to pursue but never did. I am an avid sports fan and minored in Athletics in college. There is a correlation between athletics and how companies, organizations, and the military operate in that individual goals need to mesh with larger team goals.
I am a woman of immense faith and I know that whatever happens in my life, no matter where I land myself, it is based on a plan that is out of my hands. Regardless of where I thought I’d be versus where I am, I’ve had a wonderful, challenging, and exciting life. To quote Taylor Swift, “I’ve had a marvelous time ruining everything.”
How would you describe TIAG’s company culture?
Diversity is inherent—age, backgrounds, ethnicity, lifestyles—everyone is so unique. We place value in making sure the people we hire aren’t just technically capable, but that their personality, values, and depth of character are aligned with our culture.
I chose TIAG in part because of my recruiter’s level of care and attention during the recruitment process. Her level of enthusiasm and making sure it was the right fit, not just for TIAG but for me as well, was fantastic. Her energy and commitment are something I see many employees share—the culture here is supportive, encouraging, and employee-centric.
What advice would you give a new employee?
Self-care is a discipline as integral to your personal and professional growth as acquiring new technical skills. There isn’t a reward for the most tired employee of the year. Be as present as possible when with your coworkers, family, and friends and create balance in your days and weeks. If you can keep your cup full of the things you love, enjoy, and share, everything else will fall into place.
Additionally, there is always someone you can ask if you need support. Think through things and breathe. Don’t let the stress take over. You’re surrounded by a team of people who will help you out.
What’s something people might not know about you?
My love for carpentry and restoration runs deep to my core. My dog Gracie, now 12, has been my co-pilot, moving with me from Florida to North Carolina, then on to Virginia between Alexandria and the Quantico area. Now that we are in South Carolina, Gracie and I get to see my parents more often since Sumter is “just up the road” .
Along with my commitment to my job and passion for woodworking, I also sing with the Palmetto Voices where I’ve been a member since 2006. I’ve been fortunate to sing abroad and at Carnegie Hall.
At TIAG, our greatest asset is our people. Our unique, unified company culture is composed of many brilliant, creative, well-credentialed business and technology professionals just like Christina.
Want to learn more about TIAG or work for a company that truly puts people first? Check out our current opportunities!