Professor of Practice
Sara Nienow, an applied economist in RTI’s Center for Applied Economics and Strategy, has more than 20 years of professional experience in economic analysis and program evaluation. Ms. Nienow works with clients to identify and measure economic and social impacts associated with new industrial developments and policy changes using input-output models. Other work focuses on assessing initiatives to fund and promote scientific innovation and designing and implementing community benefit plans. She has experience in regional economic analysis, survey research, interview-based research, strategic planning, and performance evaluation. In her current role, she manages projects by defining the scope and analytic approach; guiding background research and other specific project tasks; and monitoring staff, timelines, and resources. In addition, she guides junior-level staff and collaborates with peers from multiple disciplines. Before working at RTI, Ms. Nienow served as a Principal Program Evaluator for the North Carolina General Assembly, examining the efficiency and effectiveness of state programs. Other roles have included working as a long-range planner for the Town of Cary, NC, serving as an economist and planner for the NC Department of Commerce, and doing fiscal analysis for rule making at the NC Department of Environmental Quality. Sara is an IMPLAN certified economist and has been certified as an Economic Research Professional (CERP) by the Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER).
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