Johnson is the Managing Partner of the Triangle Science, Education & Economic Development LLC, (TRISEED). She is also the former Director of Economic Development for the City of Cambridge, Massachusetts. As Director, she was responsible for a wide range of economic development activities designed to meet the needs of a diversified and thriving urban economy. The Division's emphasis included programs such as commercial district revitalization, entrepreneurial development and the promotion and preservation a strong employment base.

She was appointed by Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick to the Board of MassDevelopment. She has been instrumental in starting numerous organizations, and has served as a Board Member of the Union Social Action Foundation, and the Greensboro Women's Resource Center. Other awards and recognitions include the Leadership Award from the Harvard Square Business Association, Small Business Advocate of the Year from the Greensboro Chamber of Commerce, and the Golden Eagle Award by Dudley Products.

Estella received a B.A. in social psychology from Connecticut College and a Master of Public Administration from American University.