MEET: Michelle Crockett

NOS Equal Employment Opportunity and Diversity Programs Manager

As NOS’s National Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and Diversity Programs Manager, I provide guidance and counsel to managers and employees on issues related to equal opportunity and diversity, seek methods to resolve conflict at the lowest levels, and foster awareness activities to promote diversity in the workplace.

What do you like most about working at NOS?

Every day I am faced with a new challenge, which provides me with the opportunity to seek unique methods for solutions.

What is the hardest part of your job?

Conveying to the organization that it must continually strive to understand, value, respect, and appreciate differences if it is to be more competitive.

What is your educational background?

I have a B.A. in business administration from Georgia Southwestern University and a Certification in equal employment opportunities studies from the ILR (Industrial and Labor Relations) School at Cornell University.

What inspired your interest in the ocean and coasts?

As a child, my trips to the beach with my family were rare, which made them very special. I was always amazed and intrigued by the ocean’s unique properties, from its recreational offerings to the fact that all of life depends on the ocean.

How did you end up working at NOAA?

I began my federal career in the Department of Defense as an accounting technician at the TSA (Troop Support Agency) Commissary. Then I became a claims investigator in the private sector. When I decided to reenter the federal sector, I applied to many agencies and was offered a position at NOS.

What advice do you have for young people wanting a career in the "ocean realm"?

Pursue student internships, which provide unique opportunities to gain knowledge and experience for careers at NOAA or anywhere else.