AI Software Engineer

Laura Cruz

Corpus Christi, TX • ******************@*****.*** • 361-***-**** • LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-cruz-b415373b2/

Professional Summary

Conservation enthusiast and AI engineering student passionate about integrating advanced technology with environmental stewardship. Motivated interdisciplinary learner and advocate with a focus on sustainability, public policy development, and community engagement. Currently pursuing a formal degree in AI engineering, with the goal of applying artificial intelligence and engineering principles to conservation challenges. Skilled in communicating complex ideas, building partnerships, and leading mission-driven initiatives. Core Skills

Conservation & Environmental Stewardship

AI Engineering & Applied AI Workflows

Policy Research & Analysis

Sustainability Strategy

Technical Writing & Documentation

Community Advocacy

Public Speaking & Outreach

Data Analysis & Research Methods

Grant & Proposal Development

Project Coordination

Cross-disciplinary Problem Solving

Education

Associate of Science in AI Engineering (In Progress) Maestro.org — AI University

Relevant Focus: AI Engineering, Applied AI, Engineering Fundamentals, Systems Thinking Experience & Projects

Advocacy & Policy Development (Volunteer)

Texas 2024 – Present

• Developed a proposal for humane animal trapping standards (“George’s Law”) as part of conservation advocacy efforts.

• Produced policy briefs, advocacy toolkits, and stakeholder outreach materials.

• Coordinated communication strategies to build public awareness and support for humane and sustainable practices.

AI Engineering & Technical Exploration

Remote 2024 – Present

• Studying AI engineering as part of formal degree program, with a focus on integrating AI with conservation efforts.

• Exploring AI tools, prompt engineering, and applied AI workflows to enhance problem-solving capabilities.

• Building structured learning projects and small-scale models to apply concepts and develop technical skills.

Community Advocacy & Sustainability

Texas 2023 – Present

• Led sustainability awareness initiatives and humane policy advocacy as a community volunteer.

• Collaborated with local stakeholders to promote ethical environmental practices.

• Produced educational materials and public communications to engage diverse audiences. Training & Professional Development

• Community Organizing for Social Justice

• Environmental Health & Sustainability Training (multiple programs)

• FEMA Emergency Management Courses

• Research Ethics & Methodology (CITI Program)

• Climate & Environmental Policy Courses

(Full training list available upon request)

Selected Projects

George’s Law — Humane Animal Trapping Standards

• Drafted legislative framework and developed an advocacy plan for humane animal trapping standards.

• Created outreach materials including pitch decks and policy summaries to support awareness campaigns.

AI Landslide Detection Learning Project

• Constructed a basic machine learning pipeline using satellite data to understand environmental risk detection.

• Focused on learning about model explainability and developing trust in AI outputs. Technical Tools

• AI tools (LLMs, prompt engineering, research automation)

• Data analysis and visualization tools

• Technical writing and documentation software

• Collaboration platforms

Volunteer & Leadership

• Adopt a Park Program participant — caring for local green spaces and promoting conservation

• Humane animal policy advocacy

• Sustainability education outreach

• Community engagement initiatives

Additional Strengths

• Systems thinker with creative problem-solving ability

• Excellent written communication and synthesis skills

• Mission-driven with a strong ethical focus

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