Ayeisha Brinson, PhD - Senior Environmental Economist

Meet Ayeisha Brinson, a Senior Environmental Economist at the U.S Department of Treasury, International Affairs, Office of Development Results and Accountability. 

Ayeisha oversees policy and technical reviews for environmental and social high risks projects of the multilateral development banks. Her job requires strong data analysis and technical skills to ensure that the multilateral development banks continue to apply world class environmental and social practices to their projects. 

Ayeisha previously worked for National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) as the Deputy Chief Economist for the Office of the Chief Economist. She also worked for several years in the NOAA Fisheries Office. Ayeisha’s experience is both wide and deep.  A small sampling of her experience includes assessing social and environmental impacts of large projects, assessing the cost-benefit of oceanic-based projects and contracts, and working with stakeholders on sensitive projects. She has conducted economic analyses on a variety of topics, such as marine transportation, coastal tourism and recreation, fisheries, and weather.  

Ayeisha holds a Doctoral Degree from the University of Miami in Fisheries, Economics, and Policy.  She also holds a Master of Science from Colorado State and a Bachelor of Science from the University of Florida.  Ayeisha grew up in South Florida and enjoys traveling and cooking in her spare time. 

Why is diversity in STEM important?

Diversity is important in STEM because diversity is important in all parts of our lives. All perspectives should be recognized and incorporated for us to advance STEM fields and be leaders. 

What is your personal or professional mantra?

My personal mantra is carpe diem. It’s not a cliché but rather you should seize everything moment and try to learn and advance from that situation. 

What is your greatest accomplishment? 

That’s a tough question. I’ve achieved personal and professional ‘milestones’ but what I think is really important is making a positive impact to our shared world/environment/community in some way. I’d like to think that I’m contributing to that goal.

What advice would you give to youth who are interested in your career field?

My advice to youth in any field is to explore all opportunities, regardless of how it may seem. You never know where life will take you, so try new things, explore different options because you just never know!