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Olivia, Equitable Decarbonization Advocate at Natural Resources Defense Council: Advize Career Interview
A career in equitable decarbonization advocacy, as exemplified by Olivia's journey at the Natural Resources Defense Council, offers a dynamic path for impactful change.
Olivia's background in geology and geophysics led to a pivot toward advocacy, fueled by a pivotal course and a proactive approach to opportunities.
The work involves local-level engagement with governments and organizations, pushing for ambitious climate goals while ensuring equitable transitions.
A typical day is fast-paced, requiring strong writing, research, and, critically, exceptional people skills.
The role's most rewarding aspects include tangible positive impact on communities, tackling complex policy challenges, and collaborating with diverse partners.
While navigating internal and external obstacles inherent in the slow pace of government, Olivia finds immense fulfillment in a career dedicated to improving lives and the environment.
Entry-level aspirants should consider internships, program assistant roles, or pursuing further education in public policy or urban planning.
Success requires open-mindedness, strong listening skills, and resilience in the face of setbacks, highlighting the importance of learning from experienced professionals and cultivating meaningful connections throughout one's academic journey.
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Olivia Walker
Equitable Decarbonization Advocate
Natural Resources Defense Council
Yale University, 2016
UCLA FEMBA
Environmental & Related Sciences
Nonprofit
Climate, Environment and Sustainability
None Applicable
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Career Path of an Equitable Decarbonization Advocate at Natural Resources Defense Council
Olivia's career path began with a geology and geophysics degree, focusing on energy and environmental geoscience, and research-oriented internships. A pivotal "environmental policy" class shifted their focus to advocacy, leading to an entry-level NRDC role, where "hustling" and a "personal policy of just never saying no" secured promotions to Research Associate and then Senior Advocate, even amidst a pandemic-induced hiring freeze and team downsizing.
Main Responsibilities of an Equitable Decarbonization Advocate at Natural Resources Defense Council
Olivia's main responsibilities as an Equitable Decarbonization Advocate involve "advocacy at the local level," working with local governments and organizations to push for ambitious building electrification and energy efficiency. A recent focus includes advocating for the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power's 100% clean energy goal by 2035, ensuring this transition is equitable and doesn't negatively impact residents.
A Day In The Life Of An Equitable Decarbonization Advocate At Natural Resources Defense Council
A typical day for an Equitable Decarbonization Advocate at the Natural Resources Defense Council involves extensive communication—"a lot of emails and a lot of video conference calls"—coordinating with diverse partners, such as Los Angeles-based tenant rights groups and community-based organizations, to strategize advocacy efforts targeting "elected officials or city staff." The role also includes direct advocacy, such as "giving testimony at a city council meeting," showcasing the multifaceted nature of this impactful position.
Most Important Skills for an Equitable Decarbonization Advocate at Natural Resources Defense Council
Olivia, an Equitable Decarbonization Advocate, emphasizes that strong "writing and research skills" are crucial for synthesizing information on policy and technology, producing advocacy materials, and informing colleagues. However, equally important, if not more so, are exceptional "people skills," particularly active listening, for effective communication and collaboration in the field.
Favorite Parts of Being an Equitable Decarbonization Advocate at NRDC
Olivia's favorite aspects of her current role as an Equitable Decarbonization Advocate include working to "improve the place that [she] live[s] in" Los Angeles, a significant change from prior roles where geographical connection was lacking. The challenging yet rewarding work of connecting disparate social issues to create effective policy, described as "a puzzle," is another key source of job satisfaction.
Biggest Challenges Faced By An Equitable Decarbonization Advocate At NRDC
Olivia's biggest challenges as an Equitable Decarbonization Advocate involve both internal and external factors. Internally, the ability to "change your own mind about things" is crucial for effective advocacy, as is acknowledging unintended consequences of even well-intentioned actions; externally, the slow pace and siloed nature of government work create significant hurdles in implementing holistic policy solutions.
Favorite Parts Of Working In The Environmental Field As An Equitable Decarbonization Advocate
Olivia, an Equitable Decarbonization Advocate, finds immense fulfillment in a career where she is "paid to make things better," improving both lives and the environment. This fortunate position allows for a sense of purpose and satisfaction that Olivia feels is quite unique.
What Type Of Person Thrives In The Decarbonization Industry, According To An Equitable Decarbonization Advocate At Natural Resources Defense Council
Successful equitable decarbonization advocates are "open-minded" and "the best listeners," effectively connecting diverse work areas to create impactful advocacy beyond a narrow focus. The most effective individuals also possess an inspirational quality, motivating colleagues through their exemplary work and serving as role models that demonstrate "doing it really, really well."
What a Climate Advocate at Natural Resources Defense Council wishes they had known before entering the climate industry
Olivia, an Equitable Decarbonization Advocate, advises recent graduates to "talk less and listen more," emphasizing the importance of observation and learning from experienced professionals rather than immediately asserting oneself. A manager's blunt advice to "be seen and to watch, but not to be heard" during the first year proved invaluable, highlighting the need for humility and focused learning in a specialized field like energy policy advocacy.
Entry-Level Positions For Aspiring Environmental Professionals At NRDC
Olivia, an Equitable Decarbonization Advocate at the Natural Resources Defense Council, suggests that undergraduate students seeking entry-level positions in this field should consider internships at nonprofits, noting that "they're very competitive," and also program assistant roles, which, while sometimes involving "administrative or operations focused work," are crucial for organizational function. Further, Olivia highlights the value of legal fellowships or pursuing a Master's in public policy or urban planning to increase competitiveness for nonprofit positions.
Significant Career Lesson From An Equitable Decarbonization Advocate At Natural Resources Defense Council
Olivia, an Equitable Decarbonization Advocate, learned that in advocacy, "the outcome isn't necessarily in your hands," requiring acceptance of setbacks and focusing on the valuable lessons and partnerships gained during the process, even without achieving a desired policy win, as illustrated by their experience with the LA building decarbonization project. This resilience is crucial, as "any public policy fight" involves opposing forces.
College Experiences That Helped An Equitable Decarbonization Advocate At Natural Resources Defense Council Succeed
Olivia, an Equitable Decarbonization Advocate, stresses the importance of cultivating strong professional references during undergraduate studies, advising students to "make a really strong connection with your manager" or professors in relevant fields. Equally crucial is maintaining an open mind regarding academic pursuits, exploring diverse subjects to discover unexpected passions, and being willing to adapt career plans, a strategy which Olivia feels contributed to their professional success and happiness.
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