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Kimberly H.

Kimberly Hill Knott

Public Policy Coach| 10+ Yrs in Congress| Led Detroit's First Climate Plan

  • Harvard Kennedy School Logo

    Harvard Kennedy School

  • University of Michigan Ross School of Business Logo

    University of Michigan Ross School of Business

Available tomorrow

Starting at 3:00 PM UTC

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Work with Kimberly

About

I bring nearly three decades of experience in public policy, government engagement, advocacy, and coalition-building. My career highlights include: * Receiving the White House Champions of Change Award for climate leadership * Launching Civics 101 as Director of Political Relations at my church * Leading the coalition that developed Detroit’s first Climate Action Plan * Serving for more than a decade in the Detroit office of Congressman John Conyers, Jr. * Convening legislative roundtables with members of Congress, state legislators, community advocates, and parents * Presenting before audiences at the World Bank, the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Annual Legislative Conference, the Center for American Progress, the Center for Climate and Energy Solutions, and the Oxford University Alumni Association * Serving as Policy Director for Detroiters Working for Environmental Justice, chairing the Detroit Green Task Force Climate Action Committee, and serving on the Detroit Board of Zoning Appeals Throughout my career, I have guided individuals through government processes, engaged decision-makers, built strategic relationships, and achieved policy objectives. My background includes congressional service, nonprofit leadership, municipal government, community engagement, public speaking, advocacy training, and consulting. I began my public service career as a Capitol Hill intern in Washington, D.C., gaining firsthand knowledge of the federal legislative process. I later served in Congressman John Conyers, Jr.’s district office, assisting residents and organizations with accessing federal agencies, resolving constituent concerns, and advancing district priorities. As Policy Director at Detroiters Working for Environmental Justice, I advanced policies in environmental justice, public health, sustainability, and climate resilience. I also brought together residents and policymakers through roundtables, legislative updates, and community forums on energy affordability. Currently, I am President and CEO of Future Insight Consulting, LLC, where I help organizations define policy priorities, enhance government engagement, facilitate policy discussions, and build coalitions to achieve their objectives. I also facilitated a congressional roundtable connecting parents with members of Congress to discuss affordable childcare and nutrition assistance, including SNAP. As a coach, I will help aspiring and established public policy professionals navigate their careers with confidence, purpose, and strategy. Whether you are entering the field, seeking advancement, preparing to engage government officials, or planning a legislative roundtable, I will guide you through the process, help you avoid common missteps, communicate your value, and develop a practical plan for progress. My coaching approach is straightforward, encouraging, and grounded in real-world experience. I meet clients where they are, provide honest feedback, and hold them accountable as they pursue meaningful professional and policy goals. I hold degrees from the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee and Temple University, a certificate in Sustainable Management from Duke University, and completed Harvard University’s Women and Power executive education program as a full-scholarship recipient.

Kimberly’s free events

Live interactive sessions you can join for free.

Kimberly’s Public Policy Qualifications

Experience level: Executive

With nearly thirty years of experience in public policy, government, advocacy, and community engagement, I provide practical insight and am dedicated to supporting clients in achieving their professional goals. My background includes over ten years as a congressional staff member, leading policy initiatives for a nationally recognized environmental justice organization, serving on a municipal board, teaching American Government at the college level, and advising students and organizations on public policy and stakeholder engagement. I understand policy development, government operations, and how effective advocates build coalitions to turn ideas into action. As your coach, I will offer personalized guidance to help you clarify your career goals, deepen your understanding of public policy careers and the political landscape, develop networking strategies, and prepare for success in the field. I look forward to serving as your coach and helping you turn your professional goals into a clear, achievable plan.

Kimberly can help with:

Legislative Advocacy

Networking Strategy

Policy Analysis

Public Administration

Skill Building

Why do I coach?

I want to become a coach because public policy and government service are both rewarding and challenging, often requiring trusted guidance. After nearly thirty years in the political arena, I have learned that professional skills alone are not enough. With mentorship and strong faith, I have avoided many pitfalls and used my experience to make a meaningful impact. Those close to power need a strong moral foundation, sound judgment, and a clear commitment to public service. Coaching is important to me because I want to help emerging professionals recognize ethical risks, avoid common mistakes, and use their influence responsibly. I want clients to understand the realities of public policy work. Positions in a mayor’s office, governor’s office, congressional office, or government agency often demand long hours, evening and weekend commitments, competing priorities, and significant pressure. As a coach, I will offer an honest perspective on both the opportunities and challenges of this field. I will help clients set realistic expectations and build the confidence and resilience needed for a sustainable career. Most importantly, I want clients to recognize the significant potential of public service. During my time in Congress, I saw how the authority, relationships, research capabilities, and resources available to staff can address problems and improve lives. I aim to help clients see that access is not only a privilege but also a responsibility and a tool for service. Coaching allows me to share my experience as a values-driven leader, guide others through the political arena with integrity, and prepare them to create meaningful, lasting impact.

Work Experience

University of Michigan Ross School of Business Logo

Consultant

University of Michigan Ross School of Business

2023 - 2025

• Reviewed and provided guidance on incorporating environmental justice into business models. • Coached students in developing sustainable and equitable business models for Detroit businesses. • Guided students in identifying public policies and laws needed to support their projects and in effectively engaging community stakeholders to build momentum for implementation.

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Board of Zoning Appeals Member

City of Detroit

2023 - 2026

• Heard and decided appeals of administrative determinations under the Detroit Zoning Ordinance. • Evaluated development proposals for community impact, applying principles of administrative and municipal law. • Helped residents understand the role of the Board of Zoning Appeals and how to appeal a decision.

City of Detroit Logo

Chair, Climate Action Sub-Committee, Green Task Force

City of Detroit

November 2018 - December 2020

• Planned the implementation of the Detroit Climate Action Plan. • Developed an education and outreach program to engage Detroiters around climate change.

Local Church  Logo

Political Relations Director

Local Church

2018 - Present

• Launched Civics 101 to build community understanding of local and state government. • Directed a Federal Policy White Paper presented to a Presidential Candidate. • Hosted advocacy trainings and partnered with the City of Detroit and the Governor’s Office on procurement and appointments workshops.

Detroiters Working for Environmental Justice Logo

Director of Public Policy

Detroiters Working for Environmental Justice

2013 - 2017

• Founded and convened the Detroit Climate Action Collaborative, developing the city of Detroit’s first comprehensive Climate Action Plan. • Convened and led a policy team to develop the City of Detroit Greenhouse Gas Ordinance, which became law. • Organized two Environmental Youth Summits with Detroit Public Schools, one drawing over 200 students, to educate youth on climate policy, environmental justice, and environmental-related careers. • Represented the organization before federal agencies, including the White House, and at United Nations Conference of Parties gathering (Paris, Denmark, Morocco).

Detroiters Working for Environmental Justice Logo

Senior Policy Manager

Detroiters Working for Environmental Justice

January 2009 - January 2012

● Coordinated meetings with local and congressional offices to advocate for environmental justice and workforce development legislative policies. ● Worked with diverse stakeholders to help develop the framework for a Community Benefit Agreement local ordinance, ensuring contractors on Detroit projects complied with fair labor standards, local hire requirements, the Michigan Prevailing Wage Act, and other employment law statutes.

Future Insight Consulting, LLC Logo

President/CEO

Future Insight Consulting, LLC

April 2006 - Present

Future Insight Consulting, LLC (FIC), helps organizations turn policy priorities into action through advocacy training, stakeholder engagement, policy roundtables, and government engagement strategies. We prepare people. We convene leaders. We build coalitions. We move policy conversations toward action.

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Adjunct Instructor

Henry Ford College

September 2004 - September 2012

• Taught Introduction to American Government, guiding undergraduate students through the structure, institutions, and processes of U.S. federal, state, and local government.

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Congressional Aide / Community Development Advisor

U.S. House of Representatives

1997 - 2007

• Advised on education, economic and workforce development policy. • Acted as a liaison for constituent affairs • Coordinated a homeownership initiative for the 14th Congressional District that assisted over 500 first-time homebuyers.

Education

Harvard Kennedy School Logo

Harvard Kennedy School

Executive Education Training--Women and Power: Leadership in a New World

Temple University Logo

Temple University

Master's Degree, Educational Leadership and Administration, General

University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee Logo

University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee

Bachelor's Degree, Education

Duke University Logo

Duke University

Executive Education

Certificate in Sustainable Management

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