Charlie Costello

Professional Background

Charlie Costello is a highly experienced communications professional with over 30 years in the field. His career has been marked by an unwavering commitment to the principles of honest and transparent communication, principles he believes should align with personal and organizational values. He has a unique ability to innovate in communications technologies, making him a sought-after leader in the industry.

Charlie's global perspective has been greatly enriched by his residential experiences in Japan and Thailand, alongside his extensive travels throughout Asia. This exposure to diverse cultures and communication styles has allowed him to foster a deep understanding of international relations and an appreciation for cultural nuances in communication. His interests are broad, but he particularly focuses on issues of climate change and food security, which he considers fundamental to community health and environmental sustainability.

Education and Achievements

Charlie's academic journey laid a solid foundation for his impressive career. He holds a Master’s degree from the University of San Francisco, where he further developed his communication strategies, as well as a Bachelor’s degree from Santa Clara University. His foundational education began with an Associate degree in Business from Ohlone College. This educational background equips him with the necessary skills to navigate complex communication landscapes, particularly within organizations that aim to innovate continuously.

As the Founder of BuildBackBetter.FARM, Charlie is at the forefront of efforts promoting sustainable agriculture practices and innovative community solutions in farming. His role as the former Chief Farming Officer (CFO) at MariLark Farms allowed him to apply his communications expertise directly within the agricultural sector, enhancing community awareness and engagement related to food systems and climate initiatives.

Community Engagement and Advocacy

Beyond his professional achievements, Charlie is a passionate community activist dedicated to championing environmental causes. He envisions a world where everyone can grow their food, advocating for the importance of cultivating biodiversity—both in terms of plant and animal life and the vital soil microbes that support ecosystems. His commitment to this cause is demonstrated through initiatives like the Community Seed Bank, which aims to empower individuals and families to participate in urban gardening and small-scale farming, even in limited spaces like porches.

Charlie's philosophy centers on the idea that healthy communities are built on sustainable practices, community involvement, and education. By bringing discussions on food, community, and climate directly to the dinner tables of families, he strives to inspire action on a grassroots level, connecting people with the food they consume and the impact it has on the planet.

Interests and Skills

Charlie's interests extend beyond environmental activism to include a love for sports, particularly the Olympics and the World Cup. He perceives sports as a powerful means to create connections among diverse cultures and drive positive change, reinforcing his belief in building bridges through shared experiences.

In addition to his advocacy work, Charlie possesses a myriad of specialties that can enhance any organization, including:

• Web Design
• Journalism
• Writing
• Urban Gardening
• Soil Development
• Mobile App Development
• Labor History
• Strategic Planning
• Design Thinking
• Human-Centered Design Applications
• Manufacturing
• Social Media Management
• ISO9000 Standards
• Just-in-Time (JIT) Manufacturing
• Kaizen Methodologies
• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite and FrameMaker
• Fluency in Japanese
• Expertise in Labor Relations and Union Communications

Conclusion

With a rich tapestry of experience that intertwines communications, community service, and sustainable practices, Charlie Costello is committed to making meaningful contributions wherever he goes. Whether through his innovative projects like BuildBackBetter.FARM or his educational initiatives that empower individuals to take part in climate solutions, he embodies the spirit of continual growth and improvement. His unique blend of skills and passion positions him as a notable figure in advancing community engagement and fostering healthier ecosystems, both locally and globally.