In Episode 3 of Inside Steer: Conversations with Experts, Executive President Herbert Higginbotham speaks with Nicole Muise-Kielkucki, Vice President at Fourth Economy, North America, about her impactful work in the equity space.
Nicole joined Fourth Economy from a background in startup incubation in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania bringing with her expertise in food systems, supply chains and a familiarity with the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Today she uses her talent to work with clients across the US, from the Southeast to the Rust Belt, to grow local economies, plan the key services that underpin this growth, and promote and achieve equitable outcomes.
Working with clients at all levels of government as well as the private sector and non-profits, Nicole has tackled some of the most pressing issues that can hold back prosperity for all including childcare, housing and energy costs.
Always maintaining a focus on values-driven work, Nicole has been instrumental in creating the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Statewide Action Plan. This is a first of its kind strategy for housing across the big cities and rural expanses of a diverse state, and was designed to both meet the needs of incoming workers drawn by the states booming tech sector and long-time residents alike.
Meanwhile, Fourth Economy have also worked on projects in Atlanta, Georgia. The Gwinnett County 2045 Unified Plan was prepared with help from Fourth Economy in response to unprecedented population growth, rapid diversification and a burgeoning arts and culture scene.
The plan will be used to guide decision making for the next 20 years throughout the county and in key small areas to support equity and innovation. Gwinnett County has passed an $18 million Affordable Housing Development Fund, a result of the Unified Plan and its recommendations.
Working with a wide range of clients on varied projects, understanding how to plan for dynamic areas of change, balancing priorities and preserving resources are all key for Nicole.
“That variety is what keeps me engaged and keeps me excited about the work,” says Nicole.
“You have to think critically, no two clients are the same, and every day is different and that’s both challenging and fun.
“It’s been really great to see over the past several years this emerging focus on equitable development. Prioritising and valuing inclusive engagement, bringing people into conversations about their community and doing deep engagement with members that have a variety of viewpoints.
“That’s such an important piece of what we do.”
