Her Story
About Kate
I knew pretty early on that I wanted to be in the environmental field, as early as 11th grade after seeing a picture of a polluted water body with no fishing or swimming. I've done various jobs from lab work to different types of support for environmental advocacy and health. My master's was in physical geography with a minor in pathobiological sciences, which is interdisciplinary. I'm very proud of the cooperative agreement with CDC building a surveillance system for Louisiana, the first of its kind, getting health and environmental data available to the public.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Kate
01What do you attribute your success to?
I would say having to find self-esteem, maybe? Having a lot of adversity and then you really happen to believe in yourself. The more adversity and failing you have, the more you realize hey, I'm worth it and I'm gonna push hard. Self-worth is key.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Money's important, but you have to like what you're doing. Never really feel constrained by a place, chase your career path. I've moved many times and chased jobs. It's okay, it's scary to move, it's scary to be in a new place, but it was totally worth it.
03What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge is that sciences, health, CDC, and NIH funding is being re-evaluated and scrutinized, making it stressful with pushes for cost savings that set science back. Opportunities come when down to the wire you still produce meaningful work, focussing on collaboration, resourcefulness, and new ways to deliver services without failing the public health mission.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Being genuine. Trust. Having empathy. Only caring about the people that I'm serving, not self promotion. It's not fake, I genuinely do like them and care about their health. We all care and are passionate.
Join Influential Women and start making an impact. Register now.