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"By leveraging data and sharing compelling stories, we can demonstrate the effectiveness of our programs and inform policy decisions." Learn more about Jon Courtney in our latest #PeopleofScience profile: https://brnw.ch/21wEUzb

Meet the people of science.

Meet Jon Courtney, Deputy Director for Program Evaluation at the New Mexico Legislative Finance Committee.

“Quantifying the impact of programs for the state of New Mexico is vital to the success of government initiatives. My team and I use social science to inform policy decisions, evaluating what is working and setting expectations. Our office actively works on communicating the value of our programs through data analysis and storytelling. We have a dedicated team of 12 evaluation staff who play a crucial role in assessing the impact of our initiatives.

By leveraging data and sharing compelling stories, we can demonstrate the effectiveness of our programs and inform policy decisions. This evidence-based approach helps us move the needle, whether it's improving test scores, reducing grade retention, or increasing college-going rates. Being able to rely on data to make decisions is crucial in this process.

That translates to savings of thousands of dollars to taxpayers and decisions that can markedly improve the quality of life of New Mexicans. For example, we recently published research showing that participation in the state’s prekindergarten program is associated with a 10 percent increase in high school graduation, increased reading, and math achievement and provides a $6 to $1 return on investment. The state has since increased investment in this program. Conversely, we recently found participation in a prison drug treatment program was associated with worse outcomes, increasing returns to prison. This research led to repurposing funding to an evidence-based drug treatment program. 

There has been a significant shift towards evidence-based policy in state governments overall, and our office here in New Mexico is part of this movement. Witnessing the concrete results of our efforts is incredibly fulfilling. We are dedicated to ensuring that our programs are effective and that they align with our mission to improve outcomes for all.”

#PeopleofScience #STEM #STEMworkforce #STEMprofessionals
Michal Gajewski is a critical care anesthesiologist at Christus St. Vincent Regional Medical Center in New Mexico. 

“Anesthesiology, like many other healthcare professions in our country, is facing critical shortages right now. It's not just primary care providers who are affected, but also subspecialties like mine. It's disheartening to witness the ripple effect, as people in rural areas suffer from a lack of access to vital treatment and expertise. There are several factors contributing to these shortages, and one of them is the limited number of residency spots available each year.

Despite the challenges, being a physician is an incredibly fulfilling and rewarding profession. The ability to care for others and make a positive impact on their lives is a privilege unique to our field. There's an indescribable satisfaction that comes from knowing you've made a difference in someone's health journey. Even amidst advancing technology and the uncertainties it brings, the opportunity to serve others and utilize the unique skills we possess as physicians make it immensely gratifying.”

#PeopleofScience #Anesthesiology #healthcare #STEM #STEMworkforce #STEMprofessionals
Did you know #STEM played an integral role in the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF) signed in 1987 between the USSR and the United States? Juan Espinoza is a software systems engineer at Sandia National Laboratories in New Mexico and he contributed to the design and installation of the monitoring system for the INF.

“The key to my success goes back to my unwavering passion for reading. Even as a fifth grader, I was reading high school books. My love for literature grew even more when I discovered science fiction, which led me to a career in STEM as a software systems engineer.

After completing my undergraduate studies at the University of Texas-El Paso, I had the incredible opportunity to join Sandia National Laboratories and further my education at Stanford University, where I earned a master's degree in electrical engineering.

Upon my return to Sandia, I focused on national security projects, specifically perimeter and access control systems for nuclear processing sites. I later specialized in software embedded systems and even contributed to the design and installation of the monitoring system for the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF) signed in 1987 between the USSR and the United States.

As time went on, my interests shifted toward transportation and infrastructure. I worked with a team that developed an accurate transportation model and collaborated closely with the Federal Highway Administration, integrating design requirements, user needs, and environmental factors.

Currently, my job revolves around Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE), where I'm responsible for engineering electronic systems for the nuclear stockpile. This requires clear communication as system integration becomes more complex. Looking to the future, I'm an enthusiastic advocate for improved communication and the adoption of computer tools to enhance the program.”

#PeopleofScience #STEMworkforce #STEMeducation #STEMjobs #scienceandengineering #stemprofessionals #workforce #sandialabs #diplomacy

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