Kristina Kiest
Digital Strategy & Communications Architect for Mission-Driven Organizations
I lead communications and digital ecosystem strategy across global research, government, and mission driven organizations, translating complex ideas into clear narratives that inspire action. I guide multidisciplinary teams, partner with senior leaders, and design audience centered digital systems that strengthen brand identity and expand global reach.
With decades of experience across federal agencies, research institutions, and private clients, I lead modernizations that elevate brand identity, streamline operations, and create user-centered experiences grounded in accessibility, trust, and purpose.
I think like a scientist, design like a storyteller, and execute like an architect to advance meaningful, human centered progress.
Core Competencies
Technical Expertise
SQL, MySQL, AWS, GitHub, PHP, CSS, HTML, JavaScript, WordPress, Drupal
Strategic Communications
Science Communication, Public Speaking, Plain-Language Documentation, Stakeholder Engagement, Training Delivery
Project Management
Agile & Waterfall Methodology, IT Change Management, Corporate Portfolio Optimization
Cloud Architecture
SaaS, CMS, Data Lakes, API Integration, Cybersecurity
Digital Solutions & Architecture
Cloud Applications, Content Delivery Platforms, SEO, Analytics Reporting, Data Visualization
UX & User-Centered Design
Accessibility, intuitive workflows, content taxonomy, metadata strategy, all for ensuring clarity and ease for diverse audiences.
Work Experience
I’ve built a career at the intersection of digital strategy, technology, and communications, leading impactful work across NOAA, federal contractors, research institutions, and private clients. At NOAA, I currently serve as a Systems Administrator and Digital Solutions Architect, where I contribute to modernization efforts for over 160 sites and drive organization-wide innovation in cloud architecture, workflow tools, and data systems. While at Alpha Omega Integration, I spearheaded the secure migration and redesign of 30+ NOAA websites, raising system security levels and aligning infrastructure with compliance standards and research goals.
At GroundSwell, I led digital strategy and communications for NOAA’s Weather Program Office, doubling returning users, reducing bounce rates, and launching dozens of high-impact web pages and outreach campaigns. Earlier, at CIMAS, I crafted NOAA AOML’s science communications strategy and initiated a website redesign to make oceanic and climate research more accessible and user-friendly. Through Silver Fern Consultants, I’ve supported businesses across industries with branding, digital communications, and web development, helping clients elevate their online presence with thoughtful design and measurable results.
Certifications & Training
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AWS Sagemaker | ExitCertified | Seattle, WA | 2024
AWS Bedrock & Generative AI | ExitCertified | Seattle, WA | 2024
Virtual Communications Media Training | NOAA | Miami, Florida | 2020
Analytics Academy | Google | Miami, Florida | 2019
Twitter Flight School | Twitter | Miami, Florida | 2018
Presentation Bootcamp | University of Miami | Miami, Florida | 2018
Strategic Presenter | Dale Carnegie Program | Ottawa, Illinois | 2012
Google Ads | Google | Chicago, Illinois | 2011
Adobe Creative Suite Design | Adobe | Ottawa, Illinois | 2008
✨ Let's Connect
Whether you're hiring for your team, looking for a creative collaborator, or curious about working together on a freelance project, I'd love to hear from you. Fill out the form to the right and I’ll be in touch soon.