ESAL is excited to welcome Al Licata as our new program manager. With a background in neuroscience and nonprofit administration, Al brings a deep passion for both STEM and local advocacy. In this Q&A, they share their journey, motivations, and vision for the role.
TK: What led you from neuroscience to working in local advocacy?
Licata: I’ve always been passionate about science and technology, but I also deeply believe in the power of local advocacy to shape our communities. My career started in neuroscience, but over time, I was drawn to the nonprofit sector, particularly in homeless services. ESAL offers a unique space where these two interests intersect.
TK: What first sparked your interest in civic engagement?
Licata: The major social movements of my generation, particularly the rise of Black Lives Matter and the political shifts of the late 2010s, played a huge role. I started recognizing how much local policy directly affects people's daily lives. One of my first experiences combining STEM and advocacy was with the Scientist Action Advocacy Network at NYU, where we used neuroscience research to support policy changes in the juvenile justice system. That was an eye-opening moment—realizing that scientific knowledge can be leveraged for meaningful policy impact.
TK: How did your work in homeless services shape your perspective?
Licata: Working in homeless services showed me how small policy details can have enormous consequences. Something as simple as the cost of a birth certificate can be a huge barrier for someone experiencing homelessness. These local policy details matter, and they need advocates who understand the data behind them.
TK: Why do you think STEM professionals should engage in local advocacy?
Licata: Decision-makers love data, and STEM professionals can provide the evidence needed to shape better policies. Whether it’s climate change, housing development, or AI governance, science is already influencing policy—it’s just a matter of whether scientists are at the table. Plus, local engagement teaches valuable skills like relationship-building, persuasive communication, and navigating complex systems. These are essential for advocacy, but they also make us better scientists, engineers, and problem solvers.
TK: What initiatives are you leading as ESAL’s program manager?
Licata: I’m focused on launching a digital platform to connect STEM professionals in local advocacy and developing an online course to teach practical civic engagement skills.
We’re excited to roll out Mighty Networks, a digital space designed to foster connections and resource sharing among engaged STEM professionals. It’s a bit like social media but with a stronger focus on community building and collaboration.
TK: Tell us more about the online course.
Licata: ESAL has long been committed to providing practical guidance on local civic engagement, and this course will help us reach even more people in a structured, accessible format. We want to equip STEM professionals with the tools they need to make a real impact.
TK: What excites you most about your new role?
Licata: The strength of community. Now more than ever, we need to support one another. The challenges we face—whether in science, policy, or society—require collective action. ESAL is about empowering STEM professionals to engage locally, and I’m thrilled to be part of that mission.
We’re excited to see the impact Al will make in their new role and look forward to the growth of ESAL’s programs under their leadership. Welcome to the team, Al!
