We are excited to announce that Dr. Cardra E. Burns, DBA, MPA, CLC, is joining the Vimo® team as the Director of Workforce Transformation. Dr. Burns will support both Change and Innovation (C!A®) and GetInsured bringing her wealth of expertise to advance our mission of delivering operational excellence in government.
With over two decades of leadership experience in government administration, workforce development, and public health—most recently in North Carolina—Dr. Burns has led transformative initiatives that foster cultures of trust, innovation, and success. From managing statewide Medicaid expansion to spearheading leadership coaching programs that strengthened public sector teams, her track record speaks to a commitment to effectiveness and improving capacity throughout the workforce. Culture and knowledge are so core to high performance, and when combined with process and our technology solutions, we can really improve outcomes for our clients.
At Vimo, Dr. Burns will help our clients build high-performing teams, empowering them to tackle challenges with confidence and deliver exceptional outcomes for the communities they serve. Learn more about Dr. Burns in the Q+A below.
Can you share a bit about your professional journey and what led you to this role at our company?
As a young girl from South Carolina, I dreamed of making a meaningful impact, and that vision has guided my entire career. My journey began as a nutritionist for the WIC program, where I saw firsthand how systems often fell short in meeting the needs of the people they were meant to serve. That experience sparked my passion for addressing systemic challenges, leading me to over 20 years of leadership in public administration and 17 years in higher education.
Throughout my career, I’ve embraced a human-centric approach to leadership, focusing on creating solutions that empower individuals while driving organizational success. I’ve tackled challenges such as HIV prevention, operational deficits, workforce development, and leading COVID-19 response efforts. Whether navigating political landscapes or collaborating with public-sector organizations, federal partners, and private entities, my goal has always been to prioritize people while identifying smarter, more innovative ways to solve problems.
I believe in leveraging data, technology, and collaboration to streamline processes and maximize impact. Joining as the Director of Workforce Transformation feels like the perfect next step, as it allows me to continue championing people-first solutions while creating sustainable, transformative change. I’m excited to bring my expertise and passion to a team equally committed to empowering people and simplifying systems for lasting impact.
You’ve had a remarkable career in public health, workforce transformation, and higher education. What accomplishments are you most proud of, and why?
I’m especially proud of leading North Carolina’s COVID-19 Testing and Vaccine Operations. It was a defining moment that tested my ability to lead during a crisis while ensuring equity remained at the forefront. By leveraging data analytics, we identified areas with the highest need and worked closely with local health departments, community organizations, and private-sector partners to deploy resources quickly and effectively. I prioritized transparency and community engagement, ensuring that public health messaging resonated with diverse populations and built trust in the process.
As a result, we significantly increased testing and vaccination rates across the state, reduced transmission rates, and strengthened North Carolina’s overall pandemic response. My team received multiple awards for its effectiveness and innovation. Beyond the immediate impact, the strategies we implemented laid the foundation for future emergency response efforts, reinforcing the importance of equity and community-centered approaches in health and human services.
What excites you most about joining our team and leading workforce transformation efforts here?
I’m excited about the opportunity to collaborate with a team that shares my passion for innovation. GetInsured and C!A’s mission to simplify systems and improve outcomes resonates deeply with me. I am eager to work alongside a team that values creative problem-solving and is committed to making a difference. Being able to create solutions that streamline operations while uplifting the workforce is an incredibly rewarding challenge, and I’m thrilled to contribute to that vision.
With over 20 years of leadership experience, what principles guide your approach to managing teams and driving organizational change?
Empathy, collaboration, and a commitment to excellence guide my leadership. I believe in creating an environment where every voice is valued, fostering trust, and empowering teams to take ownership of their work. As my father taught me, “Can’t is not a word”. I lead with that mindset, encouraging my teams to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth.
You have worked on many large-scale projects, including Medicaid expansion and IT modernization. How do you approach complex challenges like these?
I approach complex challenges with a balance of vision and practicality. First, I ensure we have a clear, shared understanding of the desired outcomes. Then, I break the challenge into manageable parts, engage stakeholders early, and prioritize data-driven decision-making. Communication and adaptability are critical. Also, as complex projects evolve, staying aligned with the team and objectives is key.
How has your background in public-private partnerships and stakeholder engagement influenced your leadership style?
Working across sectors has taught me the critical importance of collaboration, active listening, and adaptability. I have learned that the foundation of any successful initiative starts with building a “table” that includes diverse voices, fosters trust and a sense of belonging, and creates space for meaningful dialogue. By prioritizing inclusivity and striving to find common ground, I’ve developed into a leader who understands the transformative power of collective effort in achieving shared goals.
What role do innovation and continuous improvement play in achieving workforce excellence, and how do you plan to foster these values here?
Innovation and continuous improvement are essential for building resilient, adaptive workforces. I plan to foster these values by encouraging experimentation, celebrating successes, and learning from setbacks. By providing teams with the tools and resources they need to innovate, I hope to create a culture that thrives on progress and purpose.
You have been involved in education as both a professor and program developer. How has your teaching experience shaped your approach to workforce training and development?
Teaching has reinforced the importance of meeting people where they are and tailoring learning experiences to their unique needs. In workforce training, I apply this same principle by focusing on practical, accessible, and relevant solutions. My experience emphasizes the importance of adaptability, critical thinking, and empathy, skills that are foundational for workforce excellence.
What do you see as the biggest opportunities and challenges in workforce transformation today?
The biggest opportunity lies in leveraging technology to streamline processes and empower teams. However, the challenge is ensuring that these advancements are equitable and inclusive. As we adopt new tools and approaches, it’s crucial to address disparities, invest in upskilling, and create systems that prioritize people over processes.
Outside of your professional work, what hobbies or interests inspire you and keep you motivated?
I love traveling and exploring new places, as it broadens my perspective and fuels my creativity. Last Spring, I started gardening, and it’s been incredibly rewarding to nurture my plants and watch them thrive (it’s a constant reminder of the value of patience and growth). Most importantly, my family, especially my daughters, inspires me every day to lead by example, stay grounded, and approach each day with purpose and intention.
What is a piece of advice you’ve received in your career that has stuck with you?
My very first job was working with my father. He shared many impactful “nuggets” as I worked with him. However, one piece of advice that I carry with me and share with my teams and children is, “Measure twice, cut once.” This has been a guiding principle throughout my career because it reminds me of the importance of preparation, precision, and thoughtfulness in every decision I make. Whether leading a large-scale initiative or mentoring a team member, taking the time to plan carefully and consider all angles ensures that the outcome is impactful and sustainable. This wisdom has been invaluable in navigating complex challenges and driving meaningful change.
Finally, if you could describe your leadership philosophy in one sentence, what would it be?
Leadership is about integrity, turning challenges into opportunities, and inspiring others to pursue excellence while remaining authentic.
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