Hi, I’m kara.
Sustainability professionals are part of a mighty collective — one that is diligently advancing work that matters: protecting climate investments, raising corporate standards, and building a more resilient future. These are high-stakes times, and the people doing this work deserve partners who truly understand what that means.
I am one of those people.
With over 15 years of experience in sustainability, I have led and implemented strategies across both the public and private sectors, navigating complex, highly regulated environments. My work spans the full spectrum — from vision and commitment-setting to on-the-ground execution.
I am deeply attuned to how things are perceived with a sensitivity and understanding of various client types and industries. These skills allow me to effectively communicate across a range of audiences - anticipating their pain points while considering diplomatic solutions and a way forward. Paired with a career in climate action and resilience, I have a highly developed capacity for holding multiple perspectives simultaneously.
When we work together, this is what I bring:
Strategic thinking and business acumen
Demonstrated knowledge and expertise in climate mitigation, climate adaptation, and resilience
Knowledge of social dimensions of sustainability, environmental justice, energy transition, net zero, and/or renewable energy
Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills—including the ability to build trust, deliver clear messaging, navigate sensitive dynamics, and influence without authority
Capacity to make effective decisions even when faced with imperfect information, crunched timeline, and finite resources
Ability to drive innovation and lead organizational change
Strong communication and presentation skills
Proven success managing teams and complex projects
I bring both the strategic vision and the operational discipline to build programs that last — even when resources are constrained and the stakes are high.
PRESS
I had the privilege and responsibility to shape Amtrak's sustainability future from the inside out. As Director of Sustainability, I founded and led the company's National Sustainability and Climate Resilience Program, establishing Amtrak as a credible voice in the global conversation around rail decarbonization and adaptation. My thought leadership took me to international stages — including keynotes at the Australian Rail Decarbonization and the New Zealand Rail Conferences — to podcast audiences eager to understand the future of sustainable passenger rail transportation.