Carly Nicholson is a career coach, brand guru, scientist and communications professional based in Washington, DC.​

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Career Coach.

​Carly’s journey in career coaching began as a graduate assistant at Indiana University’s O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs, where she advised students on resumes, interviews, and personal branding. She later helped develop a peer education program, training students to mentor their classmates in career development.

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Now, as the founder of a boutique career coaching business, Carly brings a realistic, results-driven approach to helping professionals navigate career transitions with financial wellness in mind. She combines practical job search strategies with cutting-edge AI tools, ensuring clients optimize their applications, networking, and interviews effectively.

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With a structured, no-nonsense approach, Carly helps established professionals take control of their careers - eliminating job search overwhelm and creating a clear, financially smart path forward.

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Brand Guru.

Every professional has a unique personal brand. Sometimes, you just need the right guidance to define and amplify it! Carly helps clients identify, refine, and leverage their brand to stand out in a competitive job market. She goes beyond traditional resume critiques, building deep relationships with clients to align their career goals with their personal strengths and marketable skills.

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With experience speaking to audiences of 100+ and creating interactive branding content, Carly provides one-on-one coaching and group workshops to help professionals enhance their visibility and career trajectory.

 

As a career coach and science communicator, Carly has successfully merged diverse professional interests into a cohesive brand and career. She draws on her experience in science, communications, and government to guide clients in a variety of industries - helping them confidently position themselves for new opportunities.

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Scientist.

Carly’s passion for science began early, sparked by a love for atmospheric science and environmental awareness. She became an amateur storm spotter in her teens and coined the phrase “Stay Weather Safe” to communicate severe weather update. A motto that continues to shape her outreach today.

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She earned a B.S. in Earth-Space Science from the University of Indianapolis, where she led the high-altitude balloon program, conducted atmospheric research with Harvard scientists, and secured funding for a WeatherSTEM station that established UIndy as a hub for meteorological data.

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Continuing her studies, Carly pursued a dual master’s degree in Environmental Science and Public Affairs at Indiana University. She interned with the Indiana Department of Environmental Management and the National Science Foundation, deepening her expertise in environmental policy. In 2019, she was selected to deliver the Winter Recognition Ceremony speech, inspiring her peers to “aspire to inspire momentous change.”​

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Communications Professional.

​Carly’s gift-for-gab and passion for science shaped her personal brand early on. Known as the "weather girl" in her circle, she regularly shared forecasts and severe weather alerts, always signing off with #StayWeatherSafe.

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Over time, she recognized her true strength - bridging science and communication. Dedicated to making complex topics accessible, she specializes in evoking awareness, interest, and understanding of science through clear, engaging messaging. Today, Carly applies this expertise in a lead communications role within the federal government, ensuring that scientific and technical information resonates with diverse audiences.

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