“This contrast between distant and close-up perspectives highlights a crucial point: as researchers, we can overlook the distinctiveness of communities when interpreting the world from a distance through our own lenses and preconceived notions.”
~ Inese Berzina-Pitcher, Program Manager for the Mines CCUS Innovation Center (MCIC) and Project Manager for the CarbonSAFE Eos Project at the Colorado School of Mines, winner of the inaugural Global CO2 Initiative (GCI) “Harmonizing Assessments of Carbon Management Approaches” creative competition.
Inese has extensive expertise in managing complex, large-scale, multi-institutional projects, as well as experience in complex proposal development and managing federally funded initiatives. Inese holds a B.A. (Business Information System Analysis and Development) from Davenport University, a M.A. (Evaluation, Measurement, and Research) from Western Michigan University, and has completed coursework towards a doctoral degree (Higher, Adult, and Lifelong Learning) at Michigan State University. Her professional focus centers on cultivating partnerships, fostering community engagement, supporting research activities, and advancing educational outreach initiatives.
Can you talk me through your career journey? How did you get involved in the CCU field?
My background is in higher education and managing large, multi-institutional, interdisciplinary research projects, working with diverse stakeholders, e.g. academics from different disciplines, industry partners, community members, etc. A big part of my job was creating a space that enabled productive collaboration among all participants.
As I was exploring opportunities for career growth in research, a position at the Colorado School of Mines particularly resonated with me. Unlike purely theoretical research, this role offered a tangible opportunity to make a meaningful impact on communities and the environment. The prospect of seeing how my work could directly benefit real-world issues is incredibly exciting and aligns with my desire to contribute to something that truly makes a difference.
Continue reading about Inese