Cristina Armstrong: Claims Adjuster at Sedgwick

Cristina Armstrong is a woman of many talents, wearing multiple hats as both a Workers’ Compensation Claims Adjuster with Sedgwick and the Communications Director for the Sarasota Bradenton Claims Association. From ensuring injured workers receive the care they need to managing marketing and communications for her association, Cristina thrives in roles that demand empathy, problem-solving, and leadership. Cristina’s journey into workers’ compensation was serendipitous. “I got into the industry by accident,” she shares. “I began as a part-time receptionist, completely new to the world of workers’ compensation, and after that, I was hooked.”

Since 2020, Cristina has embraced the challenges and rewards of the field, becoming an adjuster four years ago. What motivates Cristina to come to work every day? “There is never a dull moment in workers’ compensation,” she explains. “There’s always a problem to solve, people to help, and investigations to conduct. It appeals to everything I enjoy doing.”

Her work week is often described as a game of Tetris, constantly in motion. “I juggle between injured workers who need a listening ear, employers who need guidance, and maintaining open communication with attorneys and providers to ensure claims are handled smoothly,” she says.

Cristina’s favorite aspect of her work is problem-solving. “I love coming up with solutions, helping injured workers feel less scared, and bridging gaps between employers and the claims process,” she says. Her dedication to learning and collaboration drives her success. “Working with knowledgeable providers and attorneys helps me expand my knowledge in this field.”

Currently, Cristina is focused on investigating and analyzing mid-to-complex claims while furthering her education in client services—a direction she hopes to grow in her career. She’s also working with her fellow board members to kick off a new season of monthly networking events for the Sarasota Bradenton Claims Association. Networking is a cornerstone of Cristina’s professional philosophy. “There’s a wealth of knowledge that everyone carries, especially those who’ve been in the industry for a long time,” she says. “Never be afraid to attend a networking event or message a colleague. It builds rapport, opens doors to opportunities, and provides a community of support in an ever-changing environment.” Cristina’s leadership style is deeply influenced by her experiences as a woman and a mother.

“I think women have a natural ability to listen, analyze, and approach situations with empathy and understanding,” she shares. “As a mother, I bring a nurturing spirit to my role, which can be comforting to a scared injured worker who just needs to hear that everything is going to be okay.” Empowering others, especially women, is a mission close to Cristina’s heart. Her own journey has been shaped by the kindness and mentorship of others. “Two weeks into my journey in workers’ compensation, I was a victim of domestic violence, and my life changed forever,” she recalls.

“My boss and HR representative rallied around me, shared their own stories of survival, and mentored me. They believed in my potential before I could even see it within myself. That kindness transformed my life, and now, I make it my mission to empower and uplift others by sharing my story and advocating for mental health.” Cristina’s advocacy extends beyond her personal journey. She is a strong voice against domestic violence, using her platform to break stigmas and provide resources and encouragement to those in need. “I speak out through my church groups and social media, keeping an open-door policy for women seeking help,” she says. When asked about her proudest accomplishment, Cristina beams about winning the 2024 Bloom Award for Women Leading the Way in Workers’ Compensation.

“It was a truly rewarding and validating experience to know that I’m making a difference in a field I was meant to be in,” she says. Cristina’s adventurous spirit is evident in her personal life as well. At 18, she studied abroad in Salamanca, Spain, and spent a weekend exploring a random town in southern Spain—a liberating experience she still cherishes. More recently, she took her children to New York City for the Thanksgiving Day parade, creating heartwarming memories as they explored the places she loved as a child. Cristina’s advice for those in workers’ compensation is rooted in resilience and growth. “Workers’ compensation is not for the faint of heart.

We wear multiple hats—therapists, advocates, investigators, mentors, and leaders. Don’t let the negative discourage you, celebrate the little victories, and never stop learning from one another,” she advises. “Take time for yourself, tackle each task one at a time, and always keep growing.” With her ambitious, curious, and empathetic nature, Cristina Armstrong is not only shaping the future of workers’ compensation but also inspiring others to persevere, grow, and make a difference.