Name: Tiffany Tran
Title: Statewide Human Resources Program Manager
Department of Administrative Services
Office: HR Policy and Information Systems
1. Can you share your current role and key responsibilities within the State of Connecticut?
As a Statewide Human Resources Program Manager with the HR Policy and Information Systems team, my role is to ensure compliance with Chapter 67 (State Personnel Act) of the Connecticut General Statutes and other authorities governing state employment.
Alongside an amazing team, some of our specific responsibilities include interpreting and applying HR policies, statutes, and regulations, auditing and reviewing salary calculations for state employees, and maintenance of the UKG file and case management system.
2. What motivated you to pursue a career with the State of Connecticut, and what has been your journey here?
While pursuing my Master of Public Administration (MPA) with the University of Connecticut (UConn), I had an internship with DAS Statewide HR, which gave me firsthand experience on how state agencies work together to accomplish goals consistently and to support their employees and constituents. This experience inspired me to pursue a career with the State of Connecticut to tackle initiatives that promoted improved HR and administrative experience for its employees, while also challenging me in terms of professional and career growth.
I started my career with the State of Connecticut as a Leadership Associate for the HR Policy and Information Systems team and have remained with the team over the course of my career so far. I am constantly amazed at the level of learning that comes with this role and am always excited to take on new challenges to help better the HR experience for my colleagues and fellow State employees!
3. What achievements at the State of Connecticut are you most proud of, and what impact have they had?
My biggest achievement at the State of Connecticut was the implementation of the UKG file and case management platform. UKG allowed for improved efficiency and automation when it came to certain processes at state agencies, such as maintaining employee records, processing transfers, applying for ADA and FMLA, just to name a few. The early months of using UKG were a big learning curve for all our stakeholders, but the team was able to build resources to help with this. UKG has grown over the years, with many state agencies and functional areas utilizing it to improve their own processes for better productivity and effectiveness.
4. What hobbies or activities do you enjoy outside of your work, and how do they enrich your life?
Outside of work, I enjoy spending quality time with family and friends and watching plenty of TV and sports. I follow a lot of NFL games and am glued to my TV during the college basketball season (go Huskies)! I like to watch TV shows such as Grey’s Anatomy, Next Level Chef, The Rookie, and Traitors. I also enjoy going on walks and staying active!
I love traveling and am always jumping on every travel opportunity that comes across my way. Having the opportunity to experience new places and cultures reminds me of how vast this world is, and that there is always a new experience around the corner!
5. Could you share a memorable travel experience and what made that destination special for you?
My best travel experience so far must be Hawaii. I visited the island of Oahu, which gave me the experience of city vibes in Honolulu and more local vibes in the North Shore. The entire trip was so perfect for adventure and relaxation. I hope to visit the other islands in the future!
Rome would also be an honorable mention for its rich history!
6. What advice would you give to someone considering a career with the State of Connecticut?
Working with the State of Connecticut has provided me with the opportunity for personal and professional growth while also building connections with many talented people! If you’re up for a challenging yet rewarding experience, the State has plenty of opportunities for it!
7. What’s your favorite spot in Connecticut, and what makes it special to you?
My favorite spot in Connecticut would be Hammonasset Beach State Park! Over the years, my family has gone camping out there during the summer, and it is always such a fun time to enjoy the coastal vibes of Connecticut.
8. If you could have any superpower, what would it be and how would you use it to make a difference?
Teleportation! Imagine how much time could be saved in traveling from one place to another so quickly!
9. Who is the person you admire, and what qualities do they possess that inspire you?
My parents are my biggest inspirations. They have shown me what resilience and perseverance look like, and it’s because of them that I continue to work hard and persevere in every aspect of life as a tribute to their constant love and support.
10. What’s an interesting or fun fact?
There were over 10 million fans who attended Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour, myself included!!!
