Over two decades ago, Nicol Nicola embarked on a transformative journey to the U.S., beginning as an au pair for a wonderful family in Princeton, New Jersey, and then working for an international company and government agencies. These experiences ignited her passion for education and her commitment to evidence- based decision-making.

With a rich background in policy and economic analysis, Nicol currently leads as the Director of Economic and Demographic Research (EDR) at the New Jersey Department of Labor. EDR has a talented team of 50 economists, analysts, coders, and survey takers. The EDR team is responsible for collecting and disseminating critical information such as employment, occupation, business, and population. EDR’s outreach spans across the country, presenting data to a diverse clientele including officials, businesses, nonprofits, and scholars. The Division also conducts fiscal impact analyses of various policies.

Nicol is also an Adjunct Professor at the College of New Jersey teaching a course on business statistics to a class of undergraduate students.

Prior to this, Nicol’s career saw her in pivotal roles at both the international and state levels. As a Research Scientist at the New Jersey Department of the Treasury, she specialized in regression analyses to study the interplay of variables affecting tax revenues. Her tenure as the Director of Economic Research for the New Jersey Business & Industry Association was marked by her adept use of IMPLAN economic impact software to guide policy decisions. Additionally, she worked at Tyco International, where she served as a Paralegal.

Nicol’s expertise and leadership extend to several national committees. Her roles include being a Board Member of the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Labor Market Information Oversight Council, the Labor Market Institute Projections Managing Partnership, and the Local Employment Dynamics Steering Committee. She also serves as the Co-chair of the R Statistical Software Coding Group within the National Association of State Workforce Agencies.

Nicol attended prestigious educational institutions in the state. In August 2023, she obtained a Doctorate in Business Administration from Rutgers Business School. She also holds a Master’s degree in Public Policy from Monmouth University, a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from The College of New Jersey, and an Associate’s degree in Paralegal Studies from Mercer County Community College. Additionally, Nicol has certifications in staff and data management from Rutgers University and Cornell University.

In her spare time, Nicol enjoys walking, traveling, reading, and spending time with family and friends.