Alexa Cole: Marine Stewardship Trailblazer…by Land, Water, or Zoom!

“Why do you love your job?” was a question asked of Alexa Cole early in her career at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Her response? Same as it is today:  because she gets to travel the world, working with amazing colleagues in other countries and developing best practices for marine stewardship and resource protection. Balancing the interests of the U.S. government, industry, NGOs, and fisheries and as the Director of the Office of International Affairs, Trade, and Commerce, Alexa negotiates treaties, harmonizes laws, and sets U.S. marine policy. Not only is she doing the work that she loves, but also she’s often fortunate enough to do it just steps away from some of the best beaches in the world!  So how does she do it? Alexa relies on her innate leadership skills and persuasive advocacy chops, and importantly, she values her team members and respects the individual knowledge that each person brings to the table. Learn how this globetrotter and sustainability champion manages to virtually engage other countries, even during the pandemic.  Join hosts Dee Martin and Christine Wyman as Alexa walks them through all the facets of her important job, and how she is shapes policy everyday—policies that reach around the world.