Yuliya Montes, MBA
Yuliya Montes, MBA, is a workforce development and talent acquisition professional serving as the Career Resource Connection (ReCon) Program Coordinator for Military Programs at Idaho National Laboratory. In this role, she leads initiatives supporting military fellows, SkillBridge participants, and Hiring Our Heroes cohorts, helping service members transition into civilian careers within national laboratory environments. She also collaborates closely with HR, leadership, and external partners to strengthen recruitment pipelines and improve workforce integration across technical and mission-driven fields.
With a background spanning over two decades across marketing, research, operations, and recruiting, Yuliya brings a multidisciplinary approach to workforce strategy. Before joining INL, she spent 19 years in San Diego working in research and marketing before relocating to Idaho Falls, where she transitioned into talent acquisition and program development. She holds a Master of Business Administration from Columbia Southern University and a bachelor’s degree in International Security and Conflict Resolution from San Diego State University, blending business leadership with a strong understanding of global and organizational systems.
In her current work, Yuliya is recognized for building community-centered recruitment programs and strengthening partnerships between the laboratory and regional employers, educational institutions, and military organizations. She has played a key role in expanding programs that support employee spouses, military transitions, and early-career talent, while also integrating AI and data-driven tools to improve hiring efficiency. Known for her collaborative leadership style and commitment to workforce development, she focuses on creating accessible career pathways while fostering long-term community and economic impact.
• Summer 2025 President's List
• Spring 2025 President's List
• Boosting Your Time Management with AI Tools
• Introduction to Artificial Intelligence
• Responsible AI: Principles and Practical Applications
• Recruiting Techniques to Reveal Transferable Skills
• Generative AI, Recruiting, and Talent Acquisition
• Six Sigma: Green Belt
• The Data Science of Using People Analytics
• Inclusive Branding: The Secret to Attracting the Right Talent for Your Organization
• Project Management Simplified
• Talent Sourcing
• Professional Recruiter Certification
• Textio Inclusive Employer Brand Certification
• Columbia Southern University - MBA
• The Greater Idaho Falls Chamber of Commerce Young Professionals Network
• United Way
• Community Basket
• Local chamber of commerce
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to perseverance, strong work ethic, and self-belief, shaped early on by my father’s high expectations and emphasis on excellence. Over time, I learned to value my own capabilities and not let circumstances limit my goals. I also came to understand the importance of networking and putting myself out there, even when it leads to rejection, because persistence often leads to the right opportunities. Ultimately, I believe consistency, resilience, and continued self-confidence have guided me to where I am today and will continue to shape my future success.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received came from my father, who passed away nearly five years ago. During my undergraduate studies, he consistently reminded me to “network, network, network,” often saying that “your network is your net worth.” At the time, I didn’t fully appreciate the weight of his advice, but I now understand how foundational it is. His guidance taught me the importance of putting myself out there, staying persistent, and not giving up despite setbacks. I’ve learned that rejection can often be redirection, and that even after many “no’s,” the right opportunity can still come with continued belief in myself and perseverance.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women in my industry is to be confident, resilient, and not let criticism or doubt define your path. There will always be noise telling you what you can’t do, but it’s important to block that out and focus on your own potential—you may be surprised by what you’re capable of when you fully show up for yourself. I also believe there is room for everyone to succeed, and we are stronger when we support and uplift one another. I will always root for other women to thrive and achieve their fullest potential.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenges in my field include managing high volumes of applicants in an increasingly competitive job market, as well as addressing candidate discouragement that can result from repeated rejections. On the other hand, there are significant opportunities in strengthening community partnerships and expanding program visibility. As programs gain broader recognition, including support and acknowledgment from organizations such as the Department of Energy, there is greater potential to build stronger recruiting pipelines and connect with more qualified and motivated candidates.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are perseverance, hard work, and self-belief. I also place a strong emphasis on community service and making a positive impact where I can. Equally important is my commitment to uplifting and supporting other women, helping to create opportunities and encouragement for others to succeed alongside me.