Monica Martinez

Graduate Research Assistant

Woman with dark hair, bangs, and glasses smiling in front of capitol building
Bio

Monica is currently enrolled in the MS-STEP Program with an anticipated graduation date of Spring 2027. They are interested in community policy education and environmental justice. Skills they hope to develop at the Humphrey include policy analysis, coalition building, and understanding how energy and science policies in MN have historically excluded (or supported) marginalized communities. 

Monica currently works at the Conservation Corps as the Program Manager for the IDEC (Increasing Diversity in Environmental Careers) Program. In this role they support underrepresented STEM college students in obtaining paid internships at the DNR, MPCA, or BWSR. Monica is committed to creating spaces for marginalized youth to explore their passions, develop career skills, build strong professional networks, and confidently navigate the job market post-graduation.

Fun Facts

  1. When I was younger, my dream job was cartoon animation. I am not particularly good at drawing but I enjoy animation’s ability to capture specific moments and feelings (sometimes even better than photos or film). 
  2. A surprising fact about me is I am the oldest of 6 siblings and I have 13 first-cousins. I come from a very big family!