Nick Pieniazek

The events of 9/11 profoundly influenced my life growing up, leading to my enlistment in the United States Army less than a month after my 18th birthday. Ultimately what I wanted to do was to serve others, and my community in the process. After a yearlong deployment to Baghdad, Iraq, and almost 5 years serving as an Airborne Infantryman, I realized that this world needs much more love, respect and working together than it does hate and conflict.

After the Army, I came back to my hometown region of upstate NY and pursued a career in science. Now, I am pursuing my PhD in Physics and work as a materials research engineer at The University at Albany, in Albany New York. Rather than just keeping my head low to the ground, I want to use my skills and knowledge as a veteran and as a scientist, to actually help serve my community in a positive manner.

I advocate for the ethical use of technology, and the de-escalation of arms globally.

E: nicholas.pieniazek@gmail.com