The Naugatuck Valley Council of Governments (NVCOG) is excited to welcome two new staff members!

Kate Pipa, Transportation Planner II

Kate brings a diverse background in the nonprofit sector to her role at NVCOG, with expertise in housing, food security, and economic development. She is excited to apply this experience to transportation planning. Kate is completing her Master’s in Public Administration (Urban Governance) at Erasmus University Rotterdam and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Northeastern University. Originally from Shelton, she currently resides there and enjoys hiking, cycling, and exploring communities across Connecticut

Inez Ortiz, Environmental Planner

Inez Ortiz joins NVCOG as part of the Brownfields Program Division. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Systems and Sustainability from Southern Connecticut State University. Inez previously interned with the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection in the Office of Permitting and Program Development. She also worked with Sustainable CT, overseeing a grant program for community-led sustainability initiatives and supporting municipal certification efforts. In her free time, Inez enjoys outdoor activities, painting, and reading.