Who's That Gal: Nicole Hamilton, Business Intelligence Analyst at Veolia
Name: Nicole Hamilton
Occupation: Business Intelligence Analyst
Hometown: Topsfield, MA
Current ‘hood: Braintree, MA
Currently Reading: Into the Water by Paula Hawkins
Go-to Brunch Food: Breakfast Tacos
Tell us a little bit about your role at Veolia. What does your average day look like?
I develop reports for the business. My average day includes some report development but more requirements gathering, project planning, and problem-solving.
What first sparked your interest in STEM and specifically in the environmental field?
My career began working as an analyst for an environmental consulting company. There, I became interested in data analysis and how software and coding could add value and increase efficiency across a business. Writing code to solve problems and make someone’s job easier was a lot of fun! I am really excited to see where technological change takes the environmental industry, and I think there are a lot of opportunities there for individuals in STEM to make an impact.
What is it like to be a young woman in the world of business? Do you ever suffer from “imposter syndrome?” If so, how do you tackle it?
As a young woman in the business world, it sometimes feels difficult to be heard or taken seriously. It is difficult to find a female mentor to share experiences with and get advice from. I try to stay connected with all my female colleagues and learn from them as much as possible. I have definitely suffered from “imposter syndrome” in the past, especially when I am starting a new job or project. When this happens I try to learn as much as I can from free online trainings or whatever other resources I can find and also ask questions when I don’t know something. Also, surround yourself with other hard working, professional women! If you keep working hard and feel good in the work you are doing, you will gain the confidence to shake the “imposter syndrome.”
What advice would you give to someone that is considering transitioning from a traditional finance or business role into one that is more STEM oriented?
If you are considering it at all, do it, don’t be afraid! So much of what I have learned has been on the job since I studied finance and economics as an undergrad and there will always be a lot that I don’t know. I think that having a business or finance background will make you even more successful in STEM because you will better understand the business mindset.
Veolia is a large, international business. How do they support their female employees?
Veolia has a few programs to support their female employees and their professional development. Both programs including training, discussions, and bring women together.
How do you manage work/life balance - what are your favorite ways to de-stress?
I am sure to make time for myself despite how busy I am. I find that when I do take some me-time I am actually much more productive! My favorite way to de-stress is to go running or go for a quick walk during my lunch break.
What’s next for you?
Hopefully, I will begin grad school part-time this fall.
This post was sponsored by Veolia - but note that JUGS only accepts sponsorships from mission-aligned brands that meet our core values of compassion + fulfillment.