Jennifer Tucker, Ph.D.

I am a consultant turned Federal leader, focusing on complex science and technology programs with social impact. I am currently a member of the Career Senior Executive Service (SES), leading the Department of Agriculture's National Organic Program. 

Prior to joining the government, I served as consultant and program manager for Federal and non-profit science and technology organizations. In 2008, I authored Introduction to Type and Project Management, part of The Myers-Briggs Company's Introduction to Type Series (still available as PDF). 

I hold a Ph.D. in Science and Technology Studies from Virginia Tech, where my research focused on the motivational factors involved in scientific data sharing. This work was inspired by consulting work at the National Cancer Institute (NCI). I completed my M.S. in Management from Purdue University and a B.A. in Environmental Sciences from Wesleyan University.

Or, a lighter version... 

I began life at a very young age. After two successful years of nursery school, I embarked on a 17-year adventure through the U.S. educational system to get my college degree.  I then entered the world of consulting, and for many years, engaged with fabulous clients across diverse science and technology organizations.  I then decided to become the client and joined the Federal government. 

Over time, I have realized that group facilitation and program management are among my favorite activities, as these reframe my kindergarten report card feedback of “bossy” into professional feedback like “skilled at keeping groups on task.” 

Along my professional path, I completed another nine years of education, ending with the relief that comes from being Phinally Done (Ph.D.).  Today, I lead the National Organic Program at the U.S. Department of Agriculture.