Thursday, 21 May 2026 09:16 AM
Company Update
Executive professional highlights the evolving leadership role of executive assistants in today's business world
HARTFORD, CT / ACCESS Newswire / May 21, 2026 / Aileen P. Charland is part of a growing group of women helping shape business leadership from behind the scenes.
As Executive Assistant to the CEO and CFO at TRUMPF Inc., Charland supports senior leadership operations at a global manufacturing and technology company. Her work includes managing complex schedules, coordinating travel, supporting high-level projects, and helping executives stay focused in fast-moving business environments. In addition to her work at TRUMPF, she also serves as a board member at MakerspaceCT, a nonprofit innovation lab in Downtown Hartford, Connecticut, focused on bridging the gap between traditional skills and advanced technologies.
But Charland says the role of executive support professionals has changed significantly over the years.
"People often think executive support is only administrative, but the role has become much more strategic," Charland said. "You need strong communication skills, adaptability, discretion, and the ability to solve problems quickly."
Her career reflects the growing recognition of executive assistants as key operational leaders within organizations. Many executive support professionals now help manage workflows, improve communication across departments, and support business continuity at the highest levels.
Charland grew up in Connecticut and built her career through education, leadership experience, and consistency. She earned an Associate's Degree from Manchester Community College before completing her Bachelor's degree at Eastern Connecticut State University in 2006.
During college, she served as Executive Vice President of the American Marketing Association ECSU Collegiate Chapter and was inducted into "Who's Who Among America's Colleges and Universities."
"I always enjoyed being part of collaborative environments," Charland said. "I learned early that strong teams depend on trust, preparation, and accountability."
Those principles continue to guide her professional approach today.
According to Charland, one of the biggest challenges in executive support is balancing multiple priorities while remaining calm under pressure.
"Things can change very quickly in business," she said. "You have to stay organized, think ahead, and be ready to adapt at any moment."
Her ability to manage high-pressure situations and maintain attention to detail has helped make her a trusted member of executive leadership operations.
Beyond her corporate work, Charland has also stayed active in community leadership. She previously served as a board member for both the Glastonbury Historical Society and her condominium association.
She believes leadership exists in many forms, both inside and outside the workplace.
"Leadership is not always about being the loudest person in the room," Charland said. "Sometimes it's about creating stability, supporting others, and helping teams succeed."
Her perspective reflects a broader shift happening across modern workplaces, where collaboration, operational support, and emotional intelligence are becoming increasingly valued leadership traits.
Outside of work, Charland enjoys running, yoga, hiking, reading, and global travel. She says maintaining balance is important in both personal and professional life.
"Having interests outside of work helps you stay grounded," she said. "It gives you perspective and helps you bring your best self into your career."
As conversations around women in leadership continue to evolve, Charland hopes more people recognize the value executive support professionals bring to organizations.
"These roles require a lot of responsibility and trust," she said. "There's real leadership involved in helping businesses and executives operate effectively every day."
Her story highlights the growing impact women continue to make across all levels of business operations - including the critical work that often happens behind the scenes.
About Aileen P. Charland
Aileen P. Charland is an Executive Assistant to the CEO and CFO at TRUMPF Inc. She earned her Associate's Degree from Manchester Community College and her Bachelor's degree from Eastern Connecticut State University. She has held leadership positions in academic and community organizations and is known for her organizational skills, professionalism, and commitment to operational excellence.
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SOURCE: Aileen P. Charland