• MS, Geography/Communication, Southern Oregon University
• BS, Botany and Soils, Colorado State University.

Katie has a long history in the field of natural resource management, working variously as soil scientist, mine permitting and reclamation specialist, hazardous waste trainer, reclamation planner for desert areas, and more. She has taught at Southern Oregon State University, University of Texas and now, at RMCAD, takes the lead in the science curriculum and instruction within the Liberal Studies Department.