Her Story
About Kristina
Kristina Pilcher, MBA, is a seasoned financial professional with over 15 years of experience spanning banking, accounting supervision, and electric utility management. She currently serves as a Transmission Project Cost Analyst, Senior at American Electric Power in the Tulsa Metropolitan Area, where she leverages her expertise in budget management, forecast analysis, and project monitoring to ensure cost efficiency and compliance in a federally regulated environment. Her analytical rigor and strategic oversight have been instrumental in supporting the company’s financial stability and operational success.
Before joining the electric utility sector, Kristina developed her financial acumen through roles at Bank of Oklahoma and as an Accounting Supervisor at IMAX Worldwide Imports. Her background in accounts payable, receivable, and account reconciliation provided a strong foundation for her transition into utility finance, where she navigates the complexities of engineering-related budgets while maintaining strict financial accountability. Known for her quiet yet approachable leadership style, she prioritizes supporting her team without micromanaging, fostering collaboration and problem-solving across projects.
Kristina’s professional achievements are complemented by her personal dedication to growth and resilience. A mother of four, she completed her MBA in Accounting from Rogers State University in just three semesters while managing her family and full-time work commitments. Outside of her career, she enjoys lake outings, intramural softball, golf, beach vacations, and giving back to her community through United Way events. Her ability to balance professional excellence with personal dedication exemplifies her commitment to both her family and her field.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Kristina
01What do you attribute your success to?
I definitely attribute my success to hard work and staying dedicated. Most importantly, I've had a good support group with my husband and kids being supportive of me in getting to this point. Without that support system around me, it would have been much more difficult to achieve what I have.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I've received is to never get comfortable—always keep learning, growing, and pushing yourself to be better. Stay coachable. Being open to feedback and willing to improve has been one of the biggest drivers of my growth.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Don’t let intimidation hold you back. It can feel overwhelming at first, but confidence builds with experience. Ask questions, take risks, and remember that everyone started somewhere.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges right now is how quickly the financial industry is evolving—especially with technology, regulations, and economic uncertainty all shifting at once. There’s also a growing need for new skill sets, like data analysis and understanding AI.
At the same time, that creates huge opportunities. Finance professionals are no longer just number-focused—we’re becoming strategic partners in decision-making. Those who adapt, stay curious, and embrace new technology really have the chance to stand out and grow
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are integrity, consistency, and growth. I believe in doing the right thing, showing up every day with purpose, and always striving to be better—both professionally and personally. Family is also at the core of everything I do, and they’re a big part of what drives me.
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