Deborah Ortiz
Deborah Ortiz is a Physical Scientist specializing in Pesticide Enforcement under FIFRA at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), where she ensures compliance with federal laws governing pesticides, herbicides, disinfectants, and rodenticides. Based in EPA Region 4, Deborah conducts inspections, reviews labels and imports, develops enforcement cases, and collaborates with state pesticide programs. A chemist by training, she brings a strong scientific foundation and analytical expertise to her regulatory work, holding federal inspection credentials for pesticide-producing facilities.
Before joining the EPA, Deborah gained extensive experience across environmental consulting, hazardous waste management, and STEM education. She served as a Senior Research Analyst at Accura Engineering, preparing Superfund site reports and identifying responsible parties for contamination. Her background also includes teaching college-level chemistry and environmental science, tutoring high school and college students in STEM subjects, and consulting on hazardous and biomedical waste management projects. Deborah has combined these roles with a consistent focus on environmental justice and community engagement, helping ensure that scientific knowledge translates into meaningful local impact.
Deborah earned her Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from the University of California, Santa Cruz, and her Master of Science in Physical Chemistry from the Georgia Institute of Technology. She is an active member of the American Chemical Society and the National Organization of Black Chemists and Chemical Engineers, and volunteers as a mentor through Big Brothers Big Sisters. Recognized for her contributions to environmental protection and STEM advocacy, her accolades include multiple EPA Bronze Medals, the ACS ChemLuminary Award, and the 2018 Big Brothers Big Sisters Mentor of the Year for Metro Atlanta and Georgia.
• Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED
• Hazardous Waste Management Training 40 CFR 262.34 & 265.16
• Hazardous Materials Transport Training 49 CFR 172.704
• OSHA -0---40 Hour HAZWOPER
• Georgia Institute of Technology - M.S.
• Graduate Assistance in Areas of National Need Fellowship
• EPA Bronze Medal awards
• ACS Chem Luminary Award
• 2018 Big Brothers Big Sisters Mentor of the Year
• American Chemical Society
• National Organization for the Advancement of Black Chemists and Chemical Engineers
• Big Brothers Big Sisters
• Georgia Adopt‑A‑Stream
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute much of my success to my upbringing, which instilled in me the values, work ethic, and resilience that have guided me throughout my career.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to never give up, no matter the obstacles. Persistence and resilience have been key to overcoming challenges and achieving long-term success.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would tell young women entering my industry to cultivate a growth mindset and remain open to new experiences. Take chances on yourself by applying for opportunities, even if you don’t feel fully ready. Build and maintain strong relationships with mentors and managers, be a collaborative team player, and prioritize your health to ensure a sustainable and fulfilling career.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The value most important to me in both my work and personal life is maintaining a growth mindset. I strive to approach every challenge as an opportunity to learn, improve, and adapt, which helps me grow both professionally and personally.
Locations
US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Decatur, GA 30032