Balancing Strategy and Strength | Humans of HCA
When Alina graduated with a degree in engineering, she had no idea her future lay in supply chain consulting. Engineering alone
didn’t spark her interest, but it gave her a technical foundation she wanted to use.
“I didn’t enjoy engineering much, but I knew I wanted to apply what I’d learned,” she recalls. “That’s how I landed in supply chain—a
perfect mix of structure and strategy.”
Every day brings new challenges, from coordinating with vendors to solving logistics issues and designing better systems for clients. Beyond daily operations, she also leads forward-looking projects such as forecasting inventory, comparing procurement strategies,
and improving sourcing efficiency.
“Our days are a mix of immediate problem-solving and long-term improvement,” she says with a smile. “One of the most rewarding parts is realizing just how capable you can be with an Excel spreadsheet…”
While supply chain might not sound like the most glamorous field, Alina knows better and she has the perfect metaphor to describe it.
“If supply chain were a movie, it would be a thriller,” she laughs. “There’s always a problem to solve, a deadline to meet, and you’re constantly on edge keeping everything from unraveling.”
Though much of her work happens behind the scenes, its impact on clients is clear.
“We don’t just react to problems; we plan ahead,” she says. “From
forecasting to pre-planning, every process is proactive. Even though we’re miles away, clients never feel disconnected because we stay transparent – that trust comes from consistency and
communication.”
Though much of her work happens behind the scenes, its impact on clients is clear.
“We don’t just react to problems; we plan ahead,” she says. “From
forecasting to pre-planning, every process is proactive. Even though we’re miles away, clients never feel disconnected because we stay transparent – that trust comes from consistency and
communication.”
Early in her career, she was the only woman in a department of more than 50, a challenge that taught her to rely on skill and confidence.
“There’s still hesitation to see women in leadership roles,” she says. “But when you know your work, people take you seriously. My advice? Learn everything you can, from workflows to technical tools, and always deliver more than expected.”
Her experience at HCA has been markedly different from previous roles.
“When I joined HCA, my baby was just three months old,” she shares. “I honestly thought I’d have to sacrifice my career after becoming a mom. But my role here allows for hybrid work, and I’ve been able to continue growing professionally without compromising my responsibilities at home.”
More importantly, she feels that women at HCA are heard. “The
management listens and acts, which isn’t common everywhere.” she explains.
Outside work, Alina unwinds by crocheting, a creative outlet that mirrors her workethic: patience, precision, and seeing complex projects through.
She sees supply chain consulting becoming increasingly global and she’s already part of that shift. “I used to think operations couldn’t be managed from continents away, but now it’s the norm,” she says.
Looking ahead, she hopes to grow her team, expand HCA’s client base, and continue breaking barriers for women in the field. “I’ve met women who balance work and family with such grace and that’s what I aspire to.”
Her story is a testament to what’s possible when knowledge, resilience, and the right environment come together. As a supply chain consultant, a mother, and a role model, she reflects the values HCA strives to uphold: excellence, equity, and empowerment.
