40 under 40: Nicole Cartwright, Tahoe Resource Conservation District

Tahoe Chamber | September 11, 2018 | 40 Under 40

Nicole Cartwright’s work with the Tahoe Resource Conservation District began with a temporary position through AmeriCorps. More than 10 years later, she’s still here, having risen all the way to Executive Director for the organization that carries out conservation and stewardship for Lake Tahoe.

Not only does she help protect our beautiful lands, Nicole serves the community by volunteering for SOS Outreach, serving as vice president for the Sierra Nevada Alliance, and much more.

Congratulations to this week’s 40 under 40 honoree, Nicole Cartwright.

Can you tell us a little about your responsibilities and accomplishments in your current position?

As the Executive Director for the Tahoe Resource Conservation District (Tahoe RCD), I’m responsible for carrying out our mission of “promoting the conservation, stewardship and knowledge of the Lake Tahoe Region’s natural resources by providing leadership and innovative environmental services to all stakeholders.”

I am responsible for managing and directing the internal business operations along with developing and maintaining relationships with varied government, research, non-governmental organizations and private partners. I started with the Tahoe RCD in January 2007 as an AmeriCorps member and in October 2017 was selected for the Executive Director position. I truly believe in the work that our organization provides and am honored to have been with the organization for over 10 years.

What has been your favorite professional moment in the last year?

My favorite professional moment this last year was working with staff and partners to close Tahoe RCD’s first land acquisition. The process was long and at times trying, but totally worth it. The property we acquired provides a great opportunity for Tahoe RCD, Lake Tahoe and for our community.

Do you have a professional/life mantra that you live by?

“The best way to get something done is begin,” and the great advice of Wiz Khalifa, “Work Hard, Play Hard.”

What was your first job?

My first job was working for my parents at Industrial Equipment, our family-owned business, in Chico, Calif. from when I was about 12-15 years old. I did inventory, shipping and receiving, cleaning and whatever else my mom needed help with after school. I moved on to do lots of food service positions from managing the drive thru at Carl’s Jr to Sierra Nevada Brewery bartender before starting my career in natural resource management.

Why choose Tahoe to make your home and career?

It happened by accident. I moved here for an AmeriCorps position in 2007. I had just finished some research and field work on the Big Island of Hawaii eradicating yellow jackets. I thought it would be a nice change to move to the mountains in the middle of a big winter. I was fortunate enough to get hired on once my AmeriCorps term was complete. Now, I never want to leave!

Are you active in any volunteer roles or community groups?

I am about to start my fourth-year volunteering as a mentor for SOS Outreach—a youth development non-profit that serves at-risk youth between the ages of 8 and 18 to gear up for life through outdoor adventures. I serve as Vice President for the Sierra Nevada Alliance Board of Directors, a non-profit that protects and restores Sierra lands, water, wildlife and communities. I have been volunteering as a cast member and organizer for the V-Day South Lake Tahoe which hosts productions of The Vagina Monologues to bring awareness and organized response against violence towards women and girls all over the world.

What is your favorite thing to do outside of work?

PLAY! Hiking, snowboarding, backpacking, dog walks, kayaking, biking, grabbing a beer with friends, attending local events and theatre/arts.

Where are your favorite South Shore stomping grounds?

Dardanelles Lake, Washoe Meadow State Park, Tahoe Mountain, any of the beaches, Upper Truckee River, Sidellis, South Lake Brewing Co., and McDuff’s

Get in touch with Nicole today:
Email Nicole
Tahoe Resource Conservation District

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