About
I am a multidisciplinary leader specializing in design thinking, cross-functional collaboration, and integrated problem-solving. With broad expertise spanning community development, landscape architecture, design, research, and business, I apply holistic solutions that enhance resilience and quality of life.
Waterleaf Systems
Since 2019, I have been co-founding and leading product development at Waterleaf Systems, where we invented a nature-based water recycling system for homes and communities. I led the technology from concept through commercial validation, secured over $3M in federal grant funding and private investment, and directed a multi-year R&D effort that resulted in a U.S. Utility Patent (US11945742B2). My work spans product design, manufacturing, operations, and stakeholder management.
Earlier Career
I served as Program Manager for the City of Scappoose, leading strategic planning and visioning to help the community adapt to rapid growth, and as Program Coordinator for Clatsop County, where I developed community emergency preparedness programs and coordinated readiness for earthquakes and tsunamis.
I began my career as a Program Analyst at the City of Bellingham, conducting research and community outreach for the downtown master planning process.
Education
University of Oregon · College of Environment
Western Washington University · College of Design
Recognition
My work has been recognized by the American Society of Landscape Architects with a National Award of Excellence (2019) for co-designing green sanitation infrastructure in Lima, Peru, and an Oregon Chapter Award of Excellence (2018) for design research on material extraction and waste.
Training
I have completed leadership training through IDEO in Leading Complex Projects (2022) and Leading for Creativity (2020), and participated in the Resource Assistance for Rural Environments fellowship (2014–2016) focused on rural community planning and program development.
Languages & Citizenship
I hold dual Finnish and U.S. citizenship. I speak English fluently, German at an intermediate level (B2), and Spanish at a beginner level (A2).