I work with more than a dozen writers and communication experts who support Idaho National Laboratory's research mission areas. Together we strive to reach broad audiences and convey how research, development and demonstration here is changing the world's energy future.

I direct and oversee the work of five subcontract writers who help INL tell its most compelling research stories. I identify potential stories, assess which writer makes the best fit, assign and track their work, and provide editing/feedback on their drafts. I lead creation of videos, graphics, websites, brochures and other communication products as needed. I consult on strategic projects and outreach efforts for high-impact projects throughout INL. I also provide guidance, editing and mentoring to a number of INL communication liaisons supporting INL’s mission and support organizations.

Communication support for this research directorate includes engaging with its researchers and managers to stay abreast of new projects, capabilities and discoveries. After we decide on the most effective communication vehicles, I ensure their creation, review and dissemination. I am responsible for sharing these stories with the directorate, its leadership, INL leadership, Battelle, the Department of Energy and the public. I coordinate media interviews for researchers, which includes ensuring reporters get the information they need and advising researchers as necessary to ensure they are prepared.

I supported strategic nuclear communications for the laboratory and worked to ensure coordination among communication liaisons for all the directorates performing nuclear energy work. I also led performance reviews for these staff, who supported the Nuclear Science & Technology Directorate, the Advanced Test Reactor Complex, the Materials & Fuels Complex, the Nuclear Scientific User Facilities and the Center for Advanced Energy Studies.

I work with the Communications & Governmental Affairs group to build public awareness about laboratory research among regional and national media. For three years, I also mentored the annual Research Communications Fellow, a science writer trained at the UC Santa Cruz science communication program.

Covered statewide K-12 programs and policies, including debate and passage of historic private school voucher legislation.

Covered science research (and some policy issues) at Idaho National Laboratory and university laboratories.

Wrote about laboratory research projects for a general audience.

Covered general assignment stories.

Covered general assignment stories and weekly education digest.

Wrote science briefs (1-2 per week) and feature stories (1-2 month) for newspaper's weekly science section. Also contributed occasional breaking news stories for daily newspaper section.