One in a series honoring the Exchange’s 125 years of family serving family
Christine Harlan’s first experience with the Exchange was going to the office with her mom on weekends, fascinated by being on a military base and the sight of Soldiers in uniform.
In the late 1970s, Harlan’s mother, Lois House, was hired for a temporary job at the Exchange by an agency—a job that flourished into a 30-year career. Though Harlan has followed her mother’s footsteps, she initially wanted a career in education.
“Because my mom was in human resources, I did not want to work for the Exchange,” Harlan said. “I didn’t want anyone to think that she got me my job. When she was in the process of leaving for a transfer to Alaska, I finally applied.”
Harlan started working for the Exchange at an Express in Fort Riley while in college. Her flexible work hours allowed her to pursue her educational goals. As a cashier, she realized she enjoyed working for the Exchange and the military community.
Now in her 23rd year and working as chief of Central Region’s business management office at Exchange headquarters, Harlan still remembers the days that kept her motivated to stay with the Exchange.
“I remember when 9/11 hit, the speed as to which the deployment started and how quickly our lives changed,” she said, recalling her time at Fort Riley. “I don’t think I ever felt more connected to the military community than in that moment. We saw some people two or three times a day because spouses were gone. We watched kids grow up. I never felt more connected to a work family in my life—both the people that I worked with and the customers that we serve, and I love the mentorship and the relationships of some of the best bosses I’ve ever had in my life in this organization.”
During her career, Harlan took advantage the Exchanges’ tuition assistance program for employees and was also able to finish her bachelor’s degree and is currently enrolled in a master’s program.
“The Exchange gave me so many opportunities to stay where I was, and I held numerous jobs at that one duty station because I always told them I wanted more,” she said. “And when I was finally ready to move, it’s no different.”
Along with the relationships she’s built through the years, Harlan attributes her successes to a professional environment that promotes opportunities and career progression.
“As a single parent, the Exchange allowed my mom to support two children and build a successful career,” she said. “I am so fortunate to have a great role model in my mom and build on that success.”
“Times are different for the company now more than ever. We have to find ways to make a difference,” Harlan continued. “You have to find ways to be relevant–to make positive changes happen. You can do that through building successful networks. Don’t be afraid to put yourself and your ideas out there and work hard for what you want.”
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