Nia James Starr
Final Report for TECH Clean California’s QSG with Diversity Coalition SLO and BlocPower
Ridgewood Reservoir Project. Removing invasive phragmites.
My career has always been about using creativity and strategy to make a real impact. I started as a designer, crafting user-centered experiences, and over time, my passion for sustainability led me to transition into climate action. Along the way, I’ve worked across policy, research, and program design—giving me a unique perspective on tackling complex challenges. Having worked across industries, I’ve learned how to connect ideas, engage diverse stakeholders, and turn big-picture goals into action.
I hold a Master of Science in Sustainable Environmental Systems from Pratt Institute’s Graduate Center for Planning and the Environment, where I concentrated on the intersection of policy, economics, and the built environment. Prior to working on climate change mitigation, I spent nearly a decade as a visual designer and art director in New York City, shaping user experiences in nonprofits, the hospitality sector, and e-commerce startups. My background in user-centered design and creative strategy continues to shape my approach to community-centered climate solutions.
Tools & Skillset
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ArcGIS Maps
ArcGIS Pro
ArcGIS StoryMaps
ArcGIS Online
QGIS
Microsoft Excel
Google Sheets
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Google Workspace
Microsoft Office
Asana
Trello
Adobe Acrobat
LucidChart
HubSpot
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Adobe Photoshop
Adobe Illustrator
Adobe After Effects
Adobe InDesign
Miro
Figma
Flourish Data Visualization
Risograph
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Analysis
Presentation Skills
Project Management
Communication
Community Engagement
Teamwork
Diversity Training
Adaptability
Constructive Feedback
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Climate Change Policy Analysis
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Life Cycle Assessment
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Data Visualization
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Branding and Marketing Design
