Laurie LaPat Polasko

Laurie LaPatPolasko is an environmental engineer and microbiologist based in Scottsdale, Arizona, with more than 30 years of experience in her field. Her expertise centers on bioremediation, using microbes to degrade contaminants such as PFAS chemicals, chlorinated solvents, petroleum compounds, and explosives. She earned her bachelor's degree in biology with a marine biology emphasis from Chatham University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, followed by an MS in civil engineering and environmental engineering and an engineer's degree in civil engineering from Stanford University. She later obtained her PhD in microbiology from the University of Maryland and completed a postdoc at Stanford Medical School. LaPatPolasko is a member of the American Society of Microbiology, the American Society of Civil Engineers, and the Society of Women Engineers. Her professional honors include PRISM Awards from the Society of Women Engineers, recognition as Phoenix Businesswoman of the Year, and a National Association award for the most innovative project of the year. In addition to her professional work, she volunteers with the Society of St. Vincent de Paul to assist those facing homelessness and served two terms as a commissioner and chairman of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve.