Kristin ‘Nikki’ West graduated from Texas A&M University at Galveston with a B.S. in Ocean and Coastal Resources and a Minor in Geology in 2017. While at Texas A&M, Nikki conducted research using isotope ratio mass spectrometer to recognize geochemical biomarkers in soil samples. After graduating, she interned with Student Conservation Association, collaborating with agencies including Texas Parks & Wildlife and Texas General Land Office in wetland remediation and restoration projects.

Nikki also has extensive experience in the renewable energy field consulting with Sunrun, the largest residential solar company in the U.S. While with Sunrun, she developed the third highest client closing rate nationwide.

After two years of gaining work experience, she enrolled in the Environmental Analysis graduate program at Rice University. She currently works in the GIS Data Center Lab on campus assisting with GIS projects, tutorials and short courses. She plans to work in areas related to environmental consulting and remediation, oil and gas or environmental sustainability in her future career.