Jackie Figueroa’s career in Human Resources may have started with a simple question, but her journey since then has been anything but ordinary.

Born and raised in Essex County, Jackie attended Lynchburg College in Virginia—now the University of Lynchburg. After graduating, she returned home and spent nearly two years working as a schedule editor. It wasn’t until her exit interview that she received a piece of advice that would change the trajectory of her career. “Have you ever considered working in Human Resources?” asked the HR Director. Jackie hadn’t—but the idea stuck with her.

Just days later, while interviewing at a placement agency in Washington, D.C., the same question came up again. Taking it as a sign, Jackie accepted a temporary assignment in the HR department of a law firm, and from that moment on, she never looked back.

In April 2014, Jackie joined the Human Resources Department of Warren County. Just over a year later, in August 2015, she was appointed Director of Human Resources. For years, the HR and Civil Service departments operated side by side—separate yet collaborative. That changed in April 2024, following the retirement of the Personnel Officer, when the two departments officially merged. Jackie assumed the dual title of Director of Human Resources and Personnel Officer, continuing to lead with the same passion and integrity that shaped her early career.

Outside of her professional accomplishments, Jackie is a dedicated wife and mother. She’s been married for nearly 21 years and is the proud parent of a 19-year-old daughter currently in college and a 15-year-old son navigating high school. Though her community involvement has recently taken a backseat to school and sports activities, she remains an active PTO volunteer and member of several professional organizations, including NYSPELRA, NYSAPCSO, SHRM, the County Labor Relations Committee, and the County Risk and Safety Committee.

Jackie holds both a PHR (2005) and SPHR (2012) certification, achievements that reflect her deep commitment to the HR profession. Yet, when asked about the most valuable skill she’s developed, she doesn’t hesitate: the ability to build strong, respectful, and communicative professional relationships. “When trust and mutual respect are present, teams can overcome almost any challenge,” she says.

Her advice to those new to civil service is to be patient and ask questions. “It’s a complex and highly regulated environment,” she notes, “but your peers can be your greatest resource.” She credits much of her own learning to the generous support of colleagues, particularly Danelle from Washington County, who’s been an invaluable mentor.

Outside the office, Jackie enjoys reading, walking her mini-schnauzer, and spending time with her family on Lake George. If given the opportunity to change one thing about the civil service system, she would focus on streamlining and modernizing the hiring process. “Reducing wait times and simplifying the system would help us stay competitive and attract top talent to better serve the public.”

Jackie Figueroa is a shining example of how following a nudge—or two—can lead to a fulfilling and impactful career.