Her Story
About Elaine
Elaine Yang is a public sector professional with more than 12 years of experience spanning federal government, healthcare, program analysis, operations, and stakeholder engagement. She currently serves as a Program Analyst with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s Center for Tobacco Products, where she supports leadership through program coordination, strategic analysis, workforce initiatives, training and development, executive briefings, and cross-functional communication. Her federal career also includes more than three years with the Social Security Administration, where she specialized in resolving complex earnings discrepancies, evaluating benefit eligibility, and ensuring compliance with agency policies and procedures.
Elaine’s professional background is complemented by a strong foundation in healthcare and public administration. Before entering federal service, she spent more than five years working in ophthalmology and optometry, supporting patient care, clinical operations, and practice growth. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Health Administration and Policy from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, as well as a Master of Public Administration from Purdue Global. She is also a NASM Certified Personal Trainer and has pursued her passion for health and fitness through MsFit Coaching MD, where she provides strength-training and performance coaching.
Driven by a desire to improve systems and positively influence the people and communities she serves, Elaine combines analytical thinking, operational expertise, and genuine human connection. She is passionate about public health, leadership, strategy, fitness, and lifelong learning, and she believes in speaking up, taking up space, and using her abilities to create meaningful change. Outside of her professional pursuits, Elaine enjoys strength training and powerlifting, traveling, reading, playing games, exploring new foods, and spending time with family and friends. Her broader goal is to build a lasting legacy by making a positive impact and leaving the world better than she found it.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Elaine
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the village of people who have supported and guided me throughout my life. Being raised in the church and watching my parents work hard taught me the importance of faith, a strong work ethic, respect, and integrity. I have also been blessed with people who have come into my life at the right moments and inspired me to keep growing and doing my best.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received is to stay true to my purpose and use my work to make a meaningful impact. My passion for public health, particularly advocating for women’s health and education, continues to guide my goals as I pursue opportunities to take on a more forward-facing role and expand my impact.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would tell young women entering my industry to take up space and never underestimate the impact they can make. Invest in yourself, believe in your abilities, and don’t be afraid to step forward and create a space for yourself. Your voice, perspective, and contributions matter.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in public health right now is the uncertainty about the direction we are heading. I believe strongly in science and evidence-based practices, and I worry about the possibility of regression in areas such as drinking-water safety and the quality and safety of our food supply, including produce, eggs, and poultry. These challenges also create an opportunity to advocate for stronger public-health standards and greater public awareness.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are family, purpose, and leaving a meaningful legacy. I want to make sure I leave the world better than I found it, while always showing up for my family and the people I care about. Above all, I strive to be my best self and make a positive impact through the way I live and work.
Join Influential Women and start making an impact. Register now.