When the military is mentioned, the usual associations are with traits such as discipline, obedience, and specialization. However, for Niki Jennings, Material Science and Engineering (MSE) Department Communicator, the connection takes an unexpected turn towards creativity.
Growing up in a military family, Jennings attributes her worldview, strong work ethic, and attention to detail to her background. Contrary to common perceptions, the military’s influence on creativity is evident in her family’s creative pursuits. “My father, also a creative, was instrumental in helping me to develop my gifts for storytelling and drawing,” Jennings shared. “His approach certainly impacted how I like to wear many different hats in my jobs.”
at the Fall 2021 Open House
This creative lifestyle spilled into Jennings’ career. Having been part of the State of North Carolina since 2008 in various communication and marketing roles, her heart always longed for NC State University. “I had wanted to work at NC State for over ten years, and I had applied for over a dozen different jobs but never landed an interview,” said Jennings. When she saw a position within MSE, she decided to try again. “I didn’t know anything about MSE, but I just knew that my background would benefit the job posting,” she recalled. Jennings sought her father’s expertise, who provided insights into materials science and encouraged her to seize the opportunity.
Upon joining MSE, Jennings leveraged her work ethic and attention to detail. “I interviewed every MSE faculty and staff member individually to take a pulse of what we were doing right or needed to improve on for internal and external communications,” she explained. She also examined existing social media and websites, meticulously assessing the department’s strengths and areas for improvement in communications.
Drive Dropoff with Mr and Mrs Wuf
Every day Jennings is working behind the scenes to showcase the department and reach the right audience. Navigating the material science industry, Jennings faces the challenge of presenting MSE’s evolution, from its founding in minerals and bricks in 1924 to its current role in advancing lithium battery production. “This department has and will always be pivoting and growing with the future wants and needs of society,” Jennings emphasized.
Her commitment to MSE goes beyond professional obligations; it’s fueled by pride, another trait associated with the military. “I am proud to be with MSE, and I hope that my talents and sensibilities have helped make the department shine a bit brighter,” expressed Jennings.
Beyond her creative endeavors at work, Jennings explores fiber arts, photography, and gaming. Running her freelance marketing business, Pix by Nix, she embodies another military characteristic of being constantly busy.