Nickey K., PCC

Nickey’s style is values-driven, strategic, and intuitive. She brings a rare ability to blend analytical thinking with emotional depth—equipping clients to lead boldly, act wisely, and sustain change. Her coaching is both a mirror and a map—reflecting core truths while guiding leaders to their highest potential. She helps leaders build a legacy that they can be proud of.

MY PASSION TO COACH

  • Nickey Knighton is a trailblazing leader, dedicated to transforming organizations through inclusive, courageous, and purpose-driven leadership. With more than 30 years of global experience in leadership, military command, organizational development, and coaching, she empowers executives to thrive in complex systems, especially during moments of transition, cultural change, and personal growth.
  • Her unique perspective stems from breaking historic barriers in the U.S. Army—becoming the first woman to command a tactical combat arms battalion and the second African American woman to earn her Army Aviator wings. Today, she channels that pioneering spirit into coaching leaders navigating uncharted terrain, especially women and professionals in high-stakes environments.
  • Nickey specializes in guiding leaders back to their core values, helping them lead with clarity, wisdom, and impact. She is known for being a “truth-teller with grace,” creating spaces where self-awareness, strategy, and transformation converge.

MY CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

  • Commanded at the highest levels in the U.S. Army, leading cross-functional, multicultural teams with integrity and resilience.
  • Coached senior executives, school superintendents, and C-suite professionals across the federal government and private sector.
  • Developed enterprise-wide DEI strategies and cultural transformation programs within mission-driven agencies.
  • Author of Sisters by Heart and Heart of a Sister, celebrating sisterhood, identity, and the resilience of Black women.
  • Delivered keynote addresses and executive retreats nationally, focusing on trust, belonging, and strategic leadership.
  • Developed, delivered and facilitated executive education leadership programs for enrolled cohorts at the managerial and senior leader level.

MY PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

  • Colonel (Retired), U.S. Army – Commanded combat and support units; stewarded operations across the globe with a legacy of trailblazing leadership.
  • Executive Coach & DEI Strategist – Partnered with multiple strategic consulting partners and federal agencies to implement high-impact coaching initiatives.
  • Thought Leader – Contributor to leadership panels, DEI think tanks, and women-in-leadership symposiums.
  • Organizational Development Expert – Built capacity within teams and organizations using frameworks such as emotional intelligence, psychological safety, storytelling, cultural identity and the Wheel of Life.

MY CREDENTIALS

  • PCC – Professional Certified Coach, International Coach Federation (ICF)
  • Executive Certificate in Leadership Coaching, Georgetown University
  • Certificate in Training and Facilitation, The Center for Creative Leadership
  • Certificate as CDEIO (Chief, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Officer), George Mason University
  • M.S.S. – Master of Strategic Studies, National War College, National Defense University
  • Master of Leadership (EML), Georgetown University
  • Trained Practitioner, Wheel of Life Framework
  • Certification in Happiness Studies, Happiness Studies Academy
  • Intercultural Development Inventory (IDI)
  • The Leadership Circle Profile Certified
  • Advanced Coaching Certification in Well-Being, George Mason University
  • Certificate in Culturally Responsive Coaching, Institute of Coaching