Nicole-Marie Cotton

Leads the end-to-end management of a $5 million STEM workforce training program across four UC campuses, increasing the program budget by $1 million through successful grant co-authorship. Performs as an HR generalist by recruiting and screening applicants before passing talent to the hiring manager.

Provides a critical, research-based perspective on the social impacts and ethical implications of Google’s emergent technologies prior to product launch. Co-authored a publication with Google’s Ethical AI group on best practices for community-based research.

Trained and managed eight undergraduates conducting research concerning minority-owned small businesses. Troubleshot issues students faced in data collection and methodology, and created instructional material.

Authored a landscape scan for Blue Shield Foundation titled Technology and the era of COVID-19 to document the impacts technology had on underserved communities during the pandemic. Conducted outreach and interviewed grassroots organization leaders to uplift their work and help create a research agenda.

Founded and oversaw a new UC Berkeley course bringing engineering and humanities students together to learn about career pathways in tech that address the world’s social issues. Recruited weekly guest speakers from major tech companies and coordinated their travel.

Conducted outreach to new foundation and corporate partners dedicated to diversity & inclusion. Successfully exceeded fundraising goal for the 2019 Othering & Belonging Conference of 1,500 participants.

Pursued advanced studies in African American Studies, focusing on critical theories and research methodologies. Engaged in in-depth analysis of social and cultural issues within the African American community.

Completed a specialized program in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Workplace. Gained expertise in fostering inclusive environments and implementing equitable practices within organizations.

Focused on Urban and Regional Planning, gaining knowledge in urban development, policy, and community planning. Developed skills in analyzing urban issues and proposing sustainable solutions.

Studied Environmental Studies and Spanish, combining scientific understanding of environmental issues with linguistic and cultural proficiency. Developed a multidisciplinary perspective on global challenges.