Ask5: Building Stronger Workplaces with Aubrey Lang, ‘24

In Ask5: Building Stronger Workplaces, Aubrey Lang, '24, shared the power of persistence, advocacy, and purpose-driven careers. Our conversation began with what motivated her to return to college and how completing her bachelor’s degree at SUNY Empire became a catalyst for career growth and new leadership opportunities.

We also discussed how her early work in human services shaped the values she brings to Human Resources today—particularly in roles spanning employment programs, benefits administration, and central recruitment. She shared how a foundation in social services continues to inform her people-centered approach to HR and organizational decision-making.

Advocacy emerged as a central theme throughout the conversation. From championing disability inclusion through workplace networks to founding a community-focused nonprofit, she reflected on why advocacy is a critical leadership skill and how it shows up in both formal roles and everyday professional interactions. She also highlighted ways HR professionals can influence more inclusive policies and conversations around disability and accessibility.

The segment closed with thoughtful advice for SUNY Empire students—especially first-generation students and those balancing work, education, or disability-related challenges—offering encouragement, practical insights, and reminders that career paths don’t have to be linear to be meaningful.

🎥 Watch the full Ask5 recording to hear her story, insights, and advice firsthand—and gain inspiration for navigating your own next career step.