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Melissa, Chief of Strategic Communications at California High-Speed Rail Authority: Advize Career Interview
A career in strategic communications offers tangible rewards and impactful work, as evidenced by Melissa's journey.
Starting in television news, covering major events like the Lacy Peterson trial and Hurricane Katrina, Melissa's path led to political communications and ultimately, a Chief of Strategic Communications role at the California High-Speed Rail Authority.
This demanding position involves advising the CEO, managing internal and external communications across various platforms, extensive community engagement, and navigating the challenges of a male-dominated field.
The work is fast-paced, requiring strong self-management and a willingness to learn constantly, but offers the profound satisfaction of seeing tangible results—from influencing train designs to ensuring diverse voices are heard.
Opportunities abound for undergraduates, including student assistant positions, fellowships, and entry-level roles within the Authority itself.
Melissa's emphasis on mentorship, networking, and the importance of a "learn by doing" approach, along with the significance of early hands-on experience, provides valuable insights for aspiring professionals.
The ability to make a difference, advocate for inclusivity, and shape the future of California's transportation system are key takeaways from Melissa's inspiring career path.
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Melissa Figueroa
Chief of Strategic Communications
California High-Speed Rail Authority
Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo
none
Creative Writing, Journalism
Government
Communication and Marketing
Transfer Student
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Career Path of a Chief of Communications at California High-Speed Rail
Melissa's career journey began in television news, starting with "producing the entire" newscast at KSBY, including covering major events like the Lacy Peterson trial and Hurricane Katrina's aftermath. This experience led to roles in political communications, culminating in a cabinet-level agency position under Governor Brown before becoming Chief of Strategic Communications at California High-Speed Rail, where they are "making their mark in this industry" as a woman in a male-dominated field.
Main Responsibilities of a Chief of Communications at High-Speed Rail
As Chief of Strategic Communications for California High-Speed Rail, Melissa advises the CEO on all communications, managing both internal and external messaging including "press releases, fact sheets, social media, and Public Records Act requests". A significant portion of Melissa's role involves extensive community engagement, directly interacting with the public to understand their needs and concerns regarding the 500-mile infrastructure project.
A Day In The Life Of A Communications Director At California High Speed Rail
A day as California High-Speed Rail Authority's Chief of Strategic Communications is "never the same," involving immediate responses to breaking news—like monitoring a recent attack on a French high-speed rail system—and ongoing efforts to engage the public through social media and by sharing "the stories" of project workers, alongside regular board meeting preparations.
Most Important Skills for a Chief of Strategic Communications at California High-Speed Rail
Melissa, Chief of Strategic Communications at California High-Speed Rail Authority, emphasizes the importance of being "inquisitive," even "nosy," to excel in their role, actively seeking knowledge through research and asking questions to inform decision-making and communication. The ability to confidently speak up and ask questions, avoiding the regret of unspoken queries, is crucial for success.
Favorite Parts of Being a Chief of Strategic Communications at California High-Speed Rail Authority
Melissa, Chief of Strategic Communications at California High-Speed Rail Authority, most enjoys "the people," particularly student engagement; interactions with younger generations provide invigorating conversations, fresh ideas, and "forward thinkingness," enriching both her work and California's future.
Biggest Challenges For A Chief Of Strategic Communications At California High-Speed Rail
Melissa's biggest challenge as Chief of Strategic Communications is being a woman in a male-dominated transportation industry, where female representation can be as low as "one to 4%," making it difficult to ensure that her voice is heard; this motivates her to advocate for increased female representation and create a more inclusive environment for future generations.
Favorite Parts Of Working In The High-Speed Rail Industry As A Chief Of Strategic Communications
Melissa, Chief of Strategic Communications at California High-Speed Rail Authority, finds the most rewarding aspect of the transportation industry is seeing "tangible results" of work, citing the physical structures and future train designs as examples. The ability to influence design elements, from station construction to train interiors ("the textures of the seats and the configuration of different components"), makes the work meaningful and impactful.
What Type Of Person Thrives In The Communications Industry, According To A Chief Of Strategic Communications At California High-Speed Rail
Melissa, Chief of Strategic Communications at California High-Speed Rail Authority, identifies respect for others and a willingness to listen as crucial for success in communications, stating that "everyone's opinion matters." The ability to acknowledge mistakes, "pivot," and learn from them while remaining culturally sensitive to diverse audiences are also key attributes for thriving in this field.
What A Strategic Communications Chief At California High-Speed Rail Wishes They Had Known Before Entering The Government Communications Industry
Melissa, Chief of Strategic Communications at California High-Speed Rail Authority, revealed that the role demands "no nine-to-five days," requiring strong self-management to set boundaries and prioritize personal life amidst a demanding 24/7 news cycle; success depends on having supportive staff and managers who respect these boundaries.
Entry-level Positions for Aspiring Communicators in California Government
Melissa, Chief of Strategic Communications at California High-Speed Rail Authority, highlights numerous entry-level opportunities in public service, including "student assistant positions" offering valuable experience and "fellowship opportunities," such as the competitive Capital Fellows program. The Authority also consistently hires for entry-level roles in communications, encompassing outreach, press, writing, and social media, emphasizing the importance of networking and asking questions to navigate the public service system.
Significant Career Lesson From A Chief Of Strategic Communications At California High-Speed Rail Authority
Melissa's most significant career lesson centers on the importance of mentorship, emphasizing that it's not always formal; "it's people you meet...that you can talk to," who offer guidance at various career stages, acting as champions. This includes "paying it forward" by becoming a mentor to others.
College Experiences that Helped a Chief of Strategic Communications at California High-Speed Rail Authority Succeed
Melissa's active involvement in the campus television station provided invaluable "learn by doing" experience, equipping them with practical skills and confidence that set them apart when entering journalism. This early hands-on experience, including learning "how to ask questions and how to present professionally," continues to benefit their career as Chief of Strategic Communications.
How Identity Has Influenced a Chief of Strategic Communications at California High-Speed Rail's Career
Melissa's Latina identity deeply influences her career, notably in advocating for "folks in the Hispanic and Latino community" to have their voices heard, leading to the hiring of four bilingual staff and Spanish translations of materials. This commitment to inclusive communication, combined with serving as a role model for other Latinos/Latinas in the industry, demonstrates the impact of representation in leadership.
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