ABOUT
ANGÉLICA M. TIRADO-CRUZ
Veteran-PhD Student-AI Professional
Strategic communications professional with over 15 years of experience helping organizations solve complex communication challenges across both desk-based and field environments. I specialize in translating complex information into clear, actionable messaging that supports strategic goals and builds trust across diverse stakeholders. My experience spans education, manufacturing, and small business, with strengths in public affairs, internal communications, stakeholder engagement, and digital strategy.
I recently earned an Executive Certificate in Communication from Liberty University, strengthening my ability to apply research and communication theory to real-world challenges. I have led high-impact initiatives, including GRI-certified Sustainability Reports, company-wide communication systems, and large-scale events, all designed to improve clarity, alignment, and engagement.
As an honorably served U.S. Army veteran, I bring discipline, resilience, and a strong sense of purpose to every role, along with a commitment to clear, effective communication in complex environments.
CORE SKILLS
Areas of Expertise
-
Strategic: External & Internal Communications
-
Cross-functional Stakeholder Management
-
Strategic Messaging & Narrative Development
-
Change Management Communications
-
Digital Content Creation (Video, Web, Social)
-
Data-Driven Campaigns & KPI Tracking
-
Tools: Canva, CMS, G-Suite, Smartsheet, Multiple AI Platforms, Adobe
JUN 2023 – Present
Senior Communications Specialist /
Green River, WY
Sisecam Wyoming
Lead strategic communications for over 550 employees across both desk-based and non-desk work environments. Support internal and external communication efforts, crisis planning, and stakeholder engagement.
-
Identified gaps in how employees received information and developed a company-wide newsletter and video communication system to improve clarity and access
-
Partner with leadership to translate complex business updates into clear, actionable communication for both desk and field employees
-
Manage the company’s LinkedIn presence, creating and publishing content that strengthens brand visibility and external engagement
-
Plan and lead large-scale company events with budgets exceeding $75,000, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and employee engagement
-
Analyze communication data and employee feedback to improve messaging and support leadership decision-making
-
Lead the development and publication of GRI-aligned Sustainability Reports and white papers
-
Collaborate across departments on public affairs, employee engagement, and plant communication strategies
JUN 2014 – DEC 2017
Communications Specialist /
Laramie, WY
Albany County School District
Managed district-wide communications strategy to improve engagement and alignment across schools and the community.
-
Led communication efforts across web, social media, and written channels to support district initiatives
-
Created content for websites, newsletters, campaigns, and short-form video
-
Introduced Canva Pro at no cost, resulting in over $200,000 in savings
-
Ensured consistent messaging and brand voice across all communication platforms
-
Launched the “Feed It Forward” program to support students through community partnerships in receiving free lunches
OCT 2018 – NOV 2022
Freelance Social Media Marketer /
Lyman, WY
Digital Sword LLC
Provided communication and digital strategy support to small businesses.
-
Developed and executed social media strategies to increase brand awareness and engagement
-
Created content including copywriting, graphics, and technical writing
-
Delivered training sessions on digital communication and customer engagement
-
Used analytics to evaluate performance and improve future campaigns
-
Provided Spanish translation and culturally relevant messaging support
WORK EXPERIENCE
EDUCATION
BA: Spanish Literature
University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY / Graduated:2003
Doctor of Philosophy in Communication (Ph.D.)
Liberty University (LU), Lynchburg, Virginia / SPR 2030
MA: Spanish History
University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY / Graduated:2007
CERTIFICATIONS
Executive Certificate in Communication, Liberty University
Social Media Marketing Certificate, BYUI
PhD Research
Fireboss & Phototaxis: Communication Theory for High-Risk Industries (In development)
Innovative models for reaching workers when digital channels aren’t an option.
In environments where safety regulations limit or ban digital communication—like mining operations—how can organizations ensure critical messages still reach workers? This research introduces two original models, Phototaxis Theory and the Fireboss Zone, to explore practical, trust-based communication strategies for high-risk industries. Click here to read the full concept paper.
Creative Writing
White Paper
China’s Trona Expansion
This white paper examines how China’s large-scale trona mining project in Inner Mongolia could reshape the global soda ash industry. With the Tongliao mine expected to add over 15 million metric tons annually by 2035, the paper outlines potential risks to U.S. producers, including price volatility, supply chain disruptions, and environmental concerns. It also offers policy recommendations to strengthen domestic resilience and safeguard America’s strategic trona resources.
Click here to read the full report. To see the associated flyer, click here.
Creative Writing
Creative Writing
Just Outside My Window: A Puerto Rican Food Love Story
This personal essay blends memory, culture, and food into a vivid meditation on heritage and belonging. From snowy Wyoming to the warmth of Puerto Rico, it explores how recipes, aromas, and family stories carry love across generations. Click here for the full story.
Internal Newsletter
This edition of the internal newsletter, created in collaboration with a colleague, represents contributions from 15 departments. The June issue was themed around Independence Day and showcases cross-functional input and editorial planning. Click here to view the sample.
Newsletter Samples
PROJECTS
Listen.Understand.Value.