What were you doing professionally prior to the CSP program?
Before joining the CSP program, I built a career in sustainability science and technology, focusing on geospatial analysis for environmental applications. As a Remote Sensing Analyst for a global tropical forest monitoring network at Conservation International, I worked on field data collection, satellite image classification, and authored publications on biodiversity conservation and sustainable agriculture. Later, as a Regional Geospatial Coordinator at NOAA, I advised coastal planners on sea level rise and flood risk mapping along the U.S. West Coast and developed GIS decision-support tools.

What inspired you to pursue your Master of Advanced Studies in Climate Science and Policy?
My inspiration to pursue a Master’s of Climate Science and Policy stemmed from the growing urgency of addressing climate change and its widespread impacts. As a mid-career professional, I recognized that it was time for a change—a pivotal moment to expand my knowledge and build upon my technical background to make a more meaningful contribution. I recognized that the increasing frequency and severity of climate-related events underscored the need for professionals equipped with the skills to bridge science, policy, and practical solutions. I was motivated to deepen my understanding of climate systems, policy frameworks, and innovative technologies to address these challenges effectively. This endeavor was not only about advancing my career, but also about aligning my constant desire to learn with my personal commitment to building a more sustainable future.

Where are you currently working and what do you do in your role?
Currently, I am a Senior Program Manager on the Sustainability Science and Innovation team at Microsoft. In this role, I manage cross-company sustainability and AI initiatives, promoting coordination and consistency across various climate, energy, and sustainability teams to develop strategies for AI-driven sustainability solutions. This involves understanding the AI and sustainability landscape at Microsoft and globally, working with internal and external stakeholders to develop publications, and ensuring efforts are based on the best available science in areas such as the net-zero energy transition, climate risk management, discovery of low-carbon materials, and innovation in datacenter design.

How did the program prepare you for your current role?
The program prepared me for my current role by providing a strong foundation in both the scientific and policy aspects of climate change. Through interdisciplinary coursework, I gained a deeper understanding of climate systems and models, economic analysis, and policy development, which are critical to addressing complex sustainability challenges. The program also broadened my expertise beyond environmental conservation and monitoring and exposed me to new areas such as carbon and greenhouse gas (GHG) accounting/reporting and the impacts of renewable energy siting. Collaborative projects and real-world case studies allowed me to apply what I learned to tangible problems, honing my ability to work across business groups and communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders. This experience not only enhanced my technical expertise, but also strengthened my capacity to lead initiatives that integrate science and technology to address pressing sustainability issues.

I had the privilege of joining the Scripps delegation at COP 25, an experience that deeply enriched my understanding of international climate negotiations. Being at the event allowed me to witness firsthand the intense discussions and type of meetings that take place behind the scenes. Having that insider's perspective on what it's really like to attend such high-level climate summits has proven invaluable in my professional discussions where I often participate in side event planning, partnership announcements, and product releases during COP.

Did you complete any research or internship opportunities during the program?
Yes, I completed an internship with the UCSD Center on Global Justice. My capstone project, which was the focus of my internship, involved the creation of a climate vulnerability atlas for the San Diego-Tijuana region. This atlas was designed to illustrate social-ecological vulnerability and climate risk beyond geopolitical boundaries. Additionally, I developed a binational vulnerability index, utilizing satellite imagery and census data, to visually highlight the disparity in green space and exposure to climate impacts between urban areas in the U.S. and Mexico, particularly in underserved neighborhoods.