Colleen Hughes

Internal Communication Specialist, National Transportation Safety Board

Professional Overview

Colleen Hughes is an accomplished Internal Communication Specialist with over 25 years of experience in the field of corporate communications. She currently leads internal communication initiatives at the National Transportation Safety Board, where she plays a pivotal role in fostering employee engagement and facilitating effective information sharing across the organization.

Experience Summary

Current Role

As the Internal Communication Specialist at the National Transportation Safety Board, Colleen is responsible for developing and implementing comprehensive internal communication strategies. She leverages her expertise in change management, crisis communication, and employee engagement to ensure seamless information flow and alignment throughout the agency. Colleen's key achievements include streamlining internal communication channels, increasing employee satisfaction by 15%, and spearheading the organization's first virtual town hall series during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Career Progression

Colleen's extensive career in communications has spanned various industries, including government, non-profit, and trade associations. Prior to her current role, she served as a Communications Specialist at the National Institute of Standards and Technology, where she managed media relations, public outreach, and stakeholder engagement initiatives. Colleen also held senior communication roles at the Life & Health Insurance Foundation for Education, the Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute, and the American College of Emergency Physicians, among others. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated a talent for creating impactful communication campaigns, fostering strong stakeholder relationships, and leading high-performing teams.

Academic Background

Colleen holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism from the University of Maryland, College Park. She is a dedicated lifelong learner, regularly attending industry conferences and workshops to stay abreast of the latest communication trends and best practices.

Areas of Expertise

• Internal communication strategy and implementation

• Change management and employee engagement

• Crisis communication and issue management

• Stakeholder relations and public outreach

• Communication campaign development and execution

• Team leadership and mentorship

Professional Impact

Colleen's contributions to the field of internal communication have been recognized by her peers. She has been featured in industry publications for her innovative communication strategies and has been invited to speak at several national conferences on the topic of employee engagement. Colleen's ability to translate complex information into clear, compelling messages has made her a trusted advisor to senior leadership teams across the organizations she has served.

Conclusion

With her extensive experience, strategic mindset, and exceptional communication skills, Colleen Hughes is poised to continue making a lasting impact in the field of internal communication. As she focuses on her current role at the National Transportation Safety Board, she remains committed to driving organizational efficiency, fostering a positive work culture, and empowering her colleagues to succeed.