40 Under 40: Nicole Barnett

Nicole Barnett is the community development manager for the telecommunications company, Ziply Fiber.

Barnett was working in retail when she was let go during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic after 13 years in retail management. While she explored her options, she stayed engaged with the community through local chambers of commerce.

That, Barnett said, led her to Ziply Fiber. 

Within a year, she was promoted from business sales to community development manager in the company's marketing department.

A bachelor's degree from Eastern Washington University has enhanced her communication skills. A passion for learning continues to drive her, fueling her efforts to help others.

"Both my professional experience and volunteer work with nonprofits have been equally invaluable," she said.

Barnett said volunteering has been a part of her life for as long as she can remember. She can't, she added, remember ever not being a part of her community and giving back to others through community service.

"Recently, someone asked me when I first volunteered," Barnett said. "I realized I’ve always been active in my community. Even in elementary school, I volunteered with the local Lion's Club and other local organizations. Community service is at the core of who I am, and I know it will always bring me joy."

She loves her work and sees continue to grow her skills and develop new talents at Ziply Fiber in a new marketing role.

Advice to her younger self: "Seek advice from your parents, trusted advisors, and mentors. No one expects you to have all the answers at this point in your life, or any point of your life."