Her Story
About Allison
Allison Odegaard is an HR Strategic Business Partner with more than eight years of human resources experience, specializing in employee relations, performance management, ADA accommodations, FMLA administration, talent acquisition, leadership development, and HR policy interpretation. She currently partners with organizational leaders to develop workforce strategies, strengthen employee engagement, and ensure compliance with employment laws while fostering a positive and inclusive workplace culture. Known for her collaborative approach and strong problem-solving skills, Allison is committed to helping both employees and organizations achieve long-term success through strategic human resources initiatives.
Before advancing into human resources, Allison spent nearly eight years as a corrections officer, where she developed a passion for helping others grow professionally and navigate career opportunities. She later transitioned into human resources through the Iowa Air National Guard, where she has served for more than 13 years and currently holds the rank of Master Sergeant. Throughout her military career, she has led compliance programs, administrative operations, inspections, leadership development, and training initiatives while ensuring organizational readiness. Her professional experience also includes serving as a Human Resource Specialist with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and as an HR Business Partner with ChildServe, providing her with a broad perspective across public sector, healthcare, and military environments.
Allison earned a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice from the University of West Florida after transferring from Simpson College and is one course away from completing her master's degree. She is a NOVA Certified Military Victim Advocate and has completed professional development in servant leadership, authentic communication, and cross-cultural communication. Beyond her professional responsibilities, Allison volunteers through the Department of Defense as a Victim Advocate and serves in the children's ministry at New Hope Church. Guided by the Air Force core values of integrity first, service before self, and excellence in all she does, she is dedicated to leading by example, developing future leaders, and creating workplaces where individuals and organizations can thrive.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Allison
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to hard work, perseverance, and determination. I have always believed in putting one foot in front of the other and continuing to move forward, regardless of obstacles. Joining the military despite being told I would not succeed taught me the value of resilience, and after more than 13 years of service, earning the rank of Master Sergeant is a testament to that mindset. The same determination has driven me to continue my education and pursue every opportunity for personal and professional growth. I believe success comes from never giving up, continually striving to improve, and proving that persistence and dedication can overcome any challenge.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have received is to never stop learning and growing. I have learned that I should not let minimum qualifications discourage me from pursuing opportunities that align with my goals. Presenting my experience with confidence, continuing to build my knowledge, and expanding my professional network have all been essential to my career growth. Developing relationships with leaders and mentors has opened doors and provided valuable guidance throughout my career.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I encourage young women to build confidence in themselves and embrace opportunities to learn at every stage of their careers. Starting in an entry-level position provides the foundation for developing valuable skills, gaining experience, and building meaningful professional relationships. Rather than rushing into higher-level roles, I believe it is important to become an expert in each position, understand every aspect of the work, and continuously invest in personal and professional development. Taking the time to master each role ultimately makes you a stronger, more valuable professional.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the greatest challenges in my career has been overcoming personal and professional transitions. Growing up in a single-parent household presented financial hardships, and transitioning from a corrections career into human resources required adaptability and persistence. Another significant challenge was leaving a position with the Department of Veterans Affairs that I had envisioned as a long-term career. At the same time, these experiences created meaningful opportunities by allowing me to leverage my corrections and military backgrounds to navigate difficult conversations, support employees effectively, and bring a unique perspective to human resources leadership. These experiences have strengthened my ability to guide others through change while driving positive organizational outcomes.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide both my professional and personal life are integrity first, service before self, and excellence in all we do. These Air Force core values influence every decision I make and shape the way I lead others. I believe in leading by example, maintaining accountability, serving others with humility, and striving for excellence in every responsibility. By demonstrating these values consistently, I hope to inspire those around me to grow, improve, and achieve their own potential.
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