Electrical Engineer

• Jul 2023 - Present

Mechanical Engineer III

• Jul 2016 - Jul 2023

In the Rural Energy Program I work with rural Alaska communities to make water and sanitation service more affordable through energy efficiency and incorporation of renewable energy sources. I conduct energy audits and apply the energy rating program, AkWarm, to help communities prioritize energy related retrofits and projects based upon impact and payback.

I am currently building our program’s capacity to support our partner communities in strategic energy and sanitation planning and project development through microgrid modeling.

In this position, I also work with ANTHC’s National Tribal Water Center to support tribes in their effort to increase sustainability of water and sanitation service through creative education and outreach. Show less

AmeriCorps VISTA

• Feb 2016 - Jul 2016

Physics Teacher

• Nov 2014 - Jun 2015

At Southfield High School I worked to develop an inquiry and project-based physics program. I wrote grants and even enlisted my own parents to build equipment to help offer a more hands-on experience to my students and increase their interest in the topic. I set the foundations for the implementation of standards based grading here as well. I managed the learning environment for 90+ students in this position. At Southfield High School I worked to develop an inquiry and project-based physics program. I wrote grants and even enlisted my own parents to build equipment to help offer a more hands-on experience to my students and increase their interest in the topic. I set the foundations for the implementation of standards based grading here as well. I managed the learning environment for 90+ students in this position.

Student Teacher

• Sep 2013 - Jun 2014

At Cass Tech I focused on teaching physics through labs and hands on activities that incorporated technology whenever I felt it may be beneficial. I implemented a handful of "flipped" lessons as well, where students learn new knowledge as homework and then practice with that new knowledge during class time. I worked with approximately 180 students in this position. At Cass Tech I focused on teaching physics through labs and hands on activities that incorporated technology whenever I felt it may be beneficial. I implemented a handful of "flipped" lessons as well, where students learn new knowledge as homework and then practice with that new knowledge during class time. I worked with approximately 180 students in this position.

Graduate Researcher (Environmental Engineering)

• Jan 2011 - Aug 2012

My graduate research built upon the work of DTP, a Tanzanian water deflouridation project. In Tanzania I designed, equipped and maintained an on-site laboratory for testing water samples and created a database for organization and analysis of client and laboratory data. I designed standardized test for measuring the fluoride uptake capacity of bone char filter media as well. I evaluated social factors influencing project sustainability then designed and wrote a sustainable, customer-funded business model/plan promoting adoption of bone char filters by Tanzanians of all socioeconomic statuses. I also conducted a Life Cycle Analysis using SimaPro to determine how to reduce process impacts/costs. Show less

Water/Sanitation Engineer

• Sep 2007 - Sep 2010

As an engineer in the Peace Corps I managed a complex, multi-year water distribution system construction project. I began by meeting with community stakeholders, government officials and local contractors to determine project parameters, then worked with community members to conduct a topographical survey of proposed pipeline route using an Abney Level. I interviewed all community members on water usage then designed a water system to meet their specific and predicted needs. I wrote a technical engineering project proposal, including construction schedule and budget. I formed relationships with local development agencies in order to fundraise the $21,000 needed for project. I located suppliers, procured and coordinated transportation of all materials and equipment. I supervised and managed local work brigades (5 crews of 5-7 people each) on project construction. I detailed project progress in trimester reports and presented on progress and set future goals at biweekly community meetings. I worked with community leaders to organize a local water committee to collect monthly quota and manage/maintain water system. I also served as a trainer to incoming water volunteers. Show less

Water Resources Engineer

• Aug 2006 - Apr 2007

• Traveled to Guatemala to collect data including water availability, demand, community layout and demographics. • Evaluated technical and operational options for water infrastructure in rural setting. • Designed a simple well and hand pump system that could be easily maintained by the community. • Engineered creative method for pouring concrete rings without a mold and built two hand-dug, concrete-lined wells benefitting 420 people • Planned and participated in multiple fundraising events on MTU campus to support project. Show less