Her Story
About Christine
Christine Autry retired in May after 22 and a half years in law enforcement, most recently serving as a police lieutenant and special project manager in Durham, North Carolina. She began her career as a police officer after moving from New York to North Carolina in 2000 and advanced through the ranks to corporal, sergeant, and lieutenant while working in patrol for more than 13 years, as well as roles as shift supervisor, watch commander, investigator, and community service officer. Autry earned a bachelor's degree in police science from John Jay College of Criminal Justice in 1995 and maintains advanced law enforcement certification along with general instructor certification. In 2012 she obtained a Masters of Science in Organizational Change Management from Pfeiffer University. She attributes her success to the love and support of her family and values camaraderie in the workplace, noting its importance for team function during long shifts and difficult calls. As a woman in a male-dominated field, she advises others that just because you do not see people who look like you in a position does not mean it is not for you, and encourages young women to believe in themselves and keep pushing forward.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Christine
01What do you attribute your success to?
My family. The love and support of my family. When I got into policing, my kids were very, very young. And I always felt like I had let them down because I wasn't always able to go to all their functions... And I remember, it was actually at my wedding reception, I actually mentioned something like that, and they was like, Mom, you think that you disappointed us by not always being there, but, we knew what you were doing. You were doing what you needed to do to support us... So, I mean, they gave me grace which allowed me to give myself grace.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Just because you don't see people that look like you in a certain position does not mean it's not for you. And being a woman in policing can be difficult, because you don't want to come off as being too bossy or too brash, and people always have this misconception of you. It’s about finding your place, because, of course, as a woman, they might see you as less than or inferior. And it's just finding your footing, and finding your stepping, and letting them know that you do belong in those spaces.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Don't let someone tell you that you can't do something. If you desire it, then do it. If that's really what you want to do, buckle down. Believe in yourself, and push yourself. Change never comes by just standing still.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Learning to approach people with empathy and understanding. This wasn’t a challenge for myself but I have seen others that have had a challenge with this in law enforcement. You have to meet people where they are, but just because I'm a police officer does not mean that I have to come towards you with an attitude or treat you less than. I’m a firm believer in treating people how you want to be treated.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Camaraderie. In the workplace is necessary. It's what's needed. Actually, in police work, it's definitely what's needed. You need to be able to listen and get along with each other. That's a key function, you're there for 12 hours or more. Sometimes you spend more time with the people you work with than you do with your family. And, When I was working, I found that camaraderie was key, to help organize and command, a squad. And it's what's necessary when you're out there dealing with, those difficult calls. You need to be able to trust and work alongside each other. And as far as. my personal life, my family is everything to me. Our bond is so loving and amazing.
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