Kaythee Hlaing-Kastenberg, JD, is a skilled attorney specializing in civil defense and utility law for the state of New Mexico. She currently serves as an attorney with the New Mexico Public Regulation Commission, a position she has held since 2023. In this role, she works closely with the legal department’s staff to analyze utilities and contribute significantly to the commission’s objectives. Before this, she worked briefly as an associate at Sutin, Thayer & Browne in 2023. Ms. Hlaing-Kastenberg’s career also includes a notable tenure as an assistant attorney general at the New Mexico Attorney General’s Office, a post in which she excelled from 2020 to 2023.
Ms. Hlaing-Kastenberg’s legal career began with her role as assistant district attorney at the Bernalillo County District Attorney’s Office from 2019 to 2020, after which she was an associate at a private law firm in 2020. Prior to entering the law, she worked in operations at The Santa Fe Opera in 2016 and as a mutual fund associate at Thornburg Investment Management from 2007 to 2014. Her early career saw her garner experience as a communications officer for World Vision International in Myanmar from 2000 to 2002, focusing on supporting underprivileged communities such as unhoused children, sex workers, and families suffering under a repressive government. Ms. Hlaing-Kastenberg’s work helped empower these communities, fostering greater awareness of their rights and inspiring resistance during a military coup.
Ms. Hlaing-Kastenberg laid a solid academic foundation for her career pursuits, earning a Bachelor of Arts in political studies from Bard College in 2006, a Master of Arts from St. John’s College in 2014, and a Juris Doctor from The University of New Mexico School of Law in 2019. Additionally, she contributed to academia and journalism, serving as an editor for the Tribal Law Journal during law school and working as a photojournalist in Myanmar.
Reflecting on her path, one of Ms. Hlaing-Kastenberg’s most notable achievements was managing a complex case as an assistant attorney general. Despite facing numerous challenges and minimal support, her persistence and dedication led to a successful outcome. She also recalls her first trial as a defining moment in her professional journey. As a newly licensed attorney, she faced an opposing counsel who underestimated her abilities, but her confidence, knowledge, and instincts helped her win the case. Moreover, Ms. Hlaing-Kastenberg has always been passionate about supporting her team, particularly during demanding periods. She takes pride in stepping in to assist her staff, even if it requires sacrificing personal time, and finds fulfillment in ensuring tasks are completed efficiently.
Committed to encouraging young women starting out their careers in the law, Ms. Hlaing-Kastenberg emphasizes the importance of persistence and resilience. She acknowledges the challenges women face, including the need to work harder for less recognition, but stresses the importance of showing up, representing clients, and pushing through obstacles. She attributes her success not only to her own determination but also to the kindness and support she has received from her network.
Outside of her professional life, Ms. Hlaing-Kastenberg enjoys spending time with her spouse and their two dogs. Looking to the future, she remains committed to making a positive impact in New Mexico, particularly in utility services. She also strives to be remembered for her dedication and persistence in achieving meaningful outcomes.