Ask5 Centers for Careers in Government with Christina Lyon

In this Ask5 conversation, Christina Lyon, a Public Outreach Specialist with the New York State Department of Civil Service, talks about careers in public service and the many opportunities available within New York State government. Christina shares her own career journey—from working in nonprofit workforce development and vocational services to transitioning into state government—and reflects on how transferable skills and a desire to help others guided her path.

The conversation also highlights the work of the Centers for Careers in Government initiative and how it connects job seekers with meaningful opportunities across New York State agencies. Christina explains how programs like New York HELPS are helping to simplify the hiring process and open doors for more people to explore careers in government. Together, they discuss how individuals from many different backgrounds—including adult learners and career changers—can find rewarding careers that make a real impact in their communities.

Bio: Christina Lyon is a Program Outreach Specialist 2 for the New York State Department of Civil Service. The NYS Department of Civil Service is the central personnel agency for the Executive Branch of New York State government, serving approximately 150,000 employees.

She is the Finger Lakes Region representative for the Centers for Careers in Government, focusing on recruitment efforts and educating the public on access to opportunities within New York State Public Service.  

Christina is originally from the Southern Tier, received her BA and MBA from St. Bonaventure University and was employed in the not-for-profit sector for eighteen years prior to transitioning to state service.