Meet Kristina Hloptsidis, a key member of our corporate legal department!

Q: What do you do for Spaceflight?

A: I work in the corporate legal department doing everything from contract negotiation and creation to domestic and international regulatory matters, export compliance and licensing. I’ve even dabbled into mission management a few times. That’s the great thing about working here, if you want it, you get the opportunity to work on a variety of projects and learn different aspects of the business.

Q: What interests you about space?

A: There is so much we don’t know – and so much for us to know. I love physics, and its constant progression, combined with the rapid development of technology, especially in the space sector. I want to be in a front row seat when new discoveries come in.

Q: What is your favorite thing to do when you’re not working?

A: Spending time with my family and friends is the most important to me. I love to travel, and enjoy physical fitness, either at the gym or running around outside exploring Seattle. I really enjoy re-modeling and working on houses. In this industry, you can work on projects for years before you see the end result. There is nothing more satisfying than knocking out a wall with a sledgehammer or ripping out carpet and getting immediate results for hard work.

Q: Star Wars, Star Trek or The Martian?

A: The shirt should say it all!

Q: If you were to mentor someone who wanted to do what you do, what advice would you give them?

A: Take pride in your work and always be accountable for what you are doing. If you mess something up, take responsibility and find a solution. It isn’t always easy or appreciated, but I promise you one day it’ll pay off.

Q: Would you interested in going to space someday? 

A: I’m more of an earth gal, but I won’t rule it out.

Q: What’s one thing that most people at Spaceflight don’t know about you?

A: I used to be really into the music industry. Before Spaceflight, I used to manage a division of a DJ company and would moonlight as an event DJ. I even have some album credits floating around out there… a brave friend of mine once let me sing on a record in studio.  I got cut from the final version (which should come as no surprise to anyone if you’ve heard me sing Happy Birthday).