Her Story
About Gina
Gina Selig serves as a Program Manager III contractor with NOAA's National Weather Service, where she supports the chief scientist by leading the AI program and taking research to operations to save lives, protect property, and support the national economy. Her professional journey began with studies in marine science and a master's degree focused on commercial fishes, after which she pursued policy work through the NOAA Educational Partnership Program as a scholar with internships at the Office of Ocean Exploration and another NOAA office. She later became a Knauss Fellow via the Hawaii Sea Grant office, enabling work at the National Science Foundation's Office of Polar Programs on Antarctic environmental policy and bridging research to decision-making. Now in contracting after federal hiring challenges, Selig values building a strong reputation through mentorship and turning complex problems into actionable solutions, while presenting at conferences like the American Meteorological Society and Esri User Conference and engaging in outreach to inspire women in STEM.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Gina
01What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Finding a mentor who can advocate for you when you're not in the room, like a senior personnel who knows your work. Building your reputation is very important - anything I put my name on, I want it to be the best that it can be. Being someone who can walk into a messy or ambitious problem and turn it into something understandable and actionable.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Keep open-minded to opportunities as they arise, even if it's not a straight line. Be intentional about self-care and carving out time for yourself, like making music or art. Listen to your body, say no when needed, and delegate tasks. Don't let emotional labor or administrative work consume all your time.
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