Before joining PGAV Planners, Cristen spent several years working as a Municipal Planner managing short- and long-term planning and economic development projects. She is an experienced community engagement liaison, often presenting information to the public and elected officials, translating complex planning and economic development concepts for public understanding. Cristen also brings experience in administering economic development incentives; preparing annual TIF reports; managing development entitlements processes; updating Zoning Ordinances; and local government program, policy, and procedure development.

 Cristen earned a Master of Urban Planning degree from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) and a B.S. in Business Administration Finance & Management from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE). She also an active member of the American Planning Association (APA), Urban Land Institute (ULI), Illinois Tax Increment Association (ITIA).