Her Story
About Nicole
Nicole Herrera is an educator, information technology support specialist, and entrepreneur working in the Washington, DC–Baltimore metropolitan area. She currently serves as an IT Support Specialist at Briya Public Charter School in Washington, DC, where she assists staff, teachers, and students with technology-related needs at the Fort Totten location. She also works as a Science and Engineering Instructor at Big Learning, teaching elementary students through hands-on lessons and experiments covering topics such as electricity, gravity, water, and circuit building. Her work combines technology support, classroom instruction, and student engagement to help learners develop practical skills and confidence.
Herrera holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology with a Pre-Pharmacy focus from Washington College and a high school diploma from Elizabeth Seton High School. Although her academic background is in biology, she began transitioning into education through volunteer service at Briya Public Charter School and subsequently developed formal experience in educational settings. She has supported adult learners in English as a Second Language classes, assisted with computer literacy and technology orientations, and contributed to science and engineering education for younger students. Alongside her educational roles, she founded Nicky’s Liberal Arts LLC to collaborate with schools and institutions in supporting student development and formation.
Beyond her professional responsibilities, Herrera has demonstrated a commitment to service through her missionary work with the Apostolate for Family Consecration, where she helped prepare and support Holy Family Fest retreats, and through her volunteer work assisting adult ESL learners at Briya Public Charter School. She attributes much of her success to her father’s ongoing encouragement and practical support throughout her personal and entrepreneurial journey. Guided by trust, compassion, and understanding, she believes that strong relationships build confidence and help people grow. Her career reflects a commitment to education, community service, lifelong learning, and creating meaningful opportunities for students.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Nicole
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute much of my success to the consistent support and encouragement of my father. He has always inspired me and stood by me throughout every stage of my life and career. His support has been especially important in my entrepreneurial journey, from helping me with business planning to choosing a name for my business. Having him walk alongside me throughout the process of establishing my business has made a meaningful difference in my professional growth.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I would give is to do what you love. When you are passionate about your work, it can positively influence your entire life. It becomes easier to connect with colleagues when you share common goals, and your days can feel brighter and more fulfilling. Pursuing work that genuinely interests you makes the challenges of a career easier to navigate and gives you a stronger sense of purpose.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice is to go for it. You never know when an opportunity will open or where a positive answer may come from. Even when you receive a rejection, it can help clarify your direction and bring you closer to the right opportunity. The important thing is to keep moving forward and prepare yourself for the person you want to become. Stay open to possibilities, continue developing your skills, and do not allow setbacks to discourage you from pursuing your goals.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Trust is my most important value, followed by compassion and understanding. I believe these values create a foundation for building confidence, which makes a significant difference in every area of life. Whether I am working with students, collaborating with colleagues, or developing my business, I strive to build relationships grounded in trust, approach others with compassion, and make an effort to understand their individual needs and perspectives.
Join Influential Women and start making an impact. Register now.