Nicole Blanchard Is Shaping a Sustainable Future Through Engineering and Innovation

photoillustration of battery icon cut out of forest seen from above

Nicole Blanchard stands out as a beacon of inspiration and excellence among engineering students at the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering. As an undergraduate civil engineering student, she has excelled academically and made a remarkable impact on environmental sustainability and innovation. Her journey is filled with accomplishments, each of which has contributed to her reputation as a passionate advocate for a greener and more resilient future.

One of Blanchard’s first experiences in sustainability was her role as a research assistant at the Environmental Research & Education Foundation (EREF). In this capacity, she worked on sustainable waste management and landfill leachates. 

On the Florida State University iGEM build team, she participated in a year-long synthetic biology research project to develop a biodegradable algaecide that might eradicate harmful algal blooms. The team’s groundbreaking work earned a silver medal and international recognition in Paris. 

As vice president of the college’s American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) chapter, Blanchard helps foster a sense of community and camaraderie among aspiring engineers. Under her leadership, the FAMU-FSU chapter has flourished, providing students with invaluable opportunities to network, learn and collaborate on projects that make a difference.

In the ASCE Innovation Contest, Blanchard led the team to first place at the Southeast Student Symposium. The project’s innovative nature and transformative potential earned it a spot at finals in Chicago later this year. 

She recently was selected for an internship at Kodama Systems, a pioneering company tackling climate resilience issues and optimizing forest health. 

Blanchard’s story serves as a testament to the power of passion, intellect and perseverance in creating a brighter and greener future for us all. 

 

ASCE Innovation Content Video Overview (narrated by Nicole Blanchard)

 


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