Earthworks Environmental

Cherie Koester, CEO at Earthworks Environmental, sets the bar high for the company she founded in September 2014. Her goal is to nurture and grow Earthworks into the most prestigious and experienced environmental consulting firm in the U.S., specializing in dust control and storm water pollution prevention. With her wealth of experience, that goal likely will be achieved sooner than later.

Cherie founded Earthworks after serving as Director of Environmental Compliance for a large landscape maintenance and landscape construction company in Metro Phoenix. While at that firm she created and ran the environmental compliance and safety division. Previous to that that role, she was a compliance inspector for the Maricopa County Air Quality Department.

Cherie gained five years of experience working closely with the development and construction industries by inspecting a wide variety of regulated sites and sources. She is a member of the Clear Air Council for MCAQD and is an expert in storm water pollution prevention and the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System. She is proficient in leading public education presentations on particulate matter pollution, dust control regulations and the necessities of staying in compliance with federal and local air pollution laws. Cherie is skillful in ensuring dust compliance and assisting the regulated community with rule interpretation. She has a specific expertise in identifying field observations then indicating cost effective and accurate job site practices.

Cherie received her Master of Science degree in International Environmental Technology Management & Sustainability in December 2011 from Arizona State University. She earned her BS in May 2008 from ASU and also holds an associate degree from Northeast Wisconsin Technical College in business administration.

Prior to her work with the air quality department Cherie gained experience in the regulated community as an office manager for Pauley Construction, a contractor of the Salt River Project. She learned aspects of the contracting industry including professional bids, job coordination, and accounting. She acquired her passion for the environment and health and safety issues as assistant store manager of a family-owned health and nutrition business.

A native of Green Bay, Wisc., Cherie is mother and stepmother to five children. Cherie enjoys spending time with her family and is particularly fond of cooking, swimming, going for walks, and perfecting her wine palette.

Cherie is active in industry groups including Valley Partnership and the Home Builders Association of Central Arizona. Maybe because she grew up where it’s cold and now she lives here in the Valley, this is what Cherie says people don’t know about her: “I am a Christmas fanatic and listen to Christmas music at least three times a week while I cook.”

That’s one animated CEO.

Dawn Joseph is not one to shy away from a challenge. Operations Manager at Earthworks, Dawn is also a successful personal business owner and State Board Certified Aesthetician and licensed with the Arizona Radiation Regulatory Agency as a laser technician.

A native of Mesa, Ariz., Dawn says joining Earthworks was “a leap of faith into an unfamiliar field.” It has paid off handsomely, helping expand her role and responsibilities as Operations Manager. Her passion is customer service. Dawn excels at patience and consistency, is extremely adaptable, and understands that every customer is important.

Dawn is a highly skilled communicator with a strong work ethic. Dawn utilizes her calming presence in everything she does. She is goal oriented and excels at time management. She is no stranger to the real estate industry in the Valley. She has years of experience working at Southeast Valley Regional Association of Realtors (SEVRAR). Dawn is active with industry groups including Valley Partnership and the Home Builders Association of Central Arizona (HBACA).

Away from the office, Dawn enjoys spending time with her children. She enjoys the theater and cinema, but you will also find her in the outdoors observing wildlife. Sometimes you might find at home cheering on her favorite UFC fighter, Brock Lesnar. She adds she likes to unwind with a glass of single malt Scotch.

The personal accomplishment of which she is most proud: “Achieving my personal independence.” A challenge she faced and triumphed over, she proudly says.

First impressions are key to any business, regardless of size. Visitors to the Gilbert office of Earthworks Environmental are greeted by Administrative Assistant Madison McMain, who makes them feel welcome and more important makes them feel like family. After all, Madison’s mother is company owner Cherie Koester.

Madison is responsible for maintaining staff schedules, event planning, invoicing for billing, and of course – welcoming guests to the office at the front desk. A native of Green Bay, Wisc., Madison lives in Queen Creek. An expectant mother, Madison is pursuing Bachelor of Science degrees in nutrition and communication at Chandler-Gilbert Community College.

Madison enjoys cooking nutritious food, working out, lifting weights, and cross-fit training. She is also an avid hiker and enjoys spending time with her husband (an active duty Marine) when he is home. The personal accomplishment of which she is most proud? “I am so proud of the person I am and the attitude that I bring forward every day,” Madison says. “I am a positive person with a touch of sarcasm. I am so extremely proud of my husband and all that he and I have gone through with us being stationed in (Oceanside) California. I am so proud to be a mom. I have the best mother in the world and can’t wait to live up to being just like her.”

The best advice she has to share: “Do what makes you happy.”

Hilary Goodine is an outgoing, loving person from Green Bay, Wisconsin. Four years ago she relocated to sunny Arizona following her year abroad in Scotland. During her time abroad she built her love for traveling and getting to know people from around the world. When returning to Arizona, Hilary completed her Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education with specialties in STEM and Environmental Education.

Though she loved her time in the classroom, she grew a greater appreciation for organization, data analysis, and the opportunity to work with people one on one. Hilary is excited to work with Earthworks Environmental while in her free time keeping her passion of working with kids by teaching on sundays and volunteering with a local musical theater group.

Outside of work, Hilary loves socalizing while listening to country music and going dancing. You can also find her outside exploring new places with the people she loves the most. With her adventurous spirit, Hilary is excited to be part of Earthworks Environmental team. She is confident she will help create a positive experience for both the staff and the clients, as well as use her professional skills to help take Earthworks Environmental to the next level.

Brendan serves as the National Operations Analyst & Advisor. He is responsible for being the company’s subject matter expert on the varying environmental regulations across the country. Brendan analyzes the ever-changing, multi-layered regulations and policies of federal, state, and local regulatory agencies to ensure that Earthworks maintains the strongest compliance standards for its clients. Brendan ensures that the company standard is met and maintained amongst its divisions as the company continues to grow throughout the nation. He also manages Earthworks’ proprietary ERX software program in conjunction with the Senior Technology Manager. Brendan is based in the company's flagship state of Arizona, but also divides his time between Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maryland, Minnesota, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Texas, and Wisconsin.

Born and raised in Boston, Massachusetts, Brendan attended the prestigious Boston Latin School. He went on to attend the University of Massachusetts in Amherst and Boston, graduating cum laude in 2005.

Brendan joined the Maricopa County Air Quality Department in January of 2006. In 2012, he joined the Clark County Department of Air Quality in Nevada. Brendan returned to the Valley of the Sun in 2014 as an Environmental Program Specialist with the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality. Since joining the private sector in 2014, he has applied his extensive government experience to assist companies in navigating through the complexities of environmental regulation. Brendan possesses 14+ years of wide-ranging environmental compliance experience.

Brendan has previously held the roles of Lead Compliance Manager and Director of Training & Development with Earthworks. In recognition of his expertise, he has twice been invited as a guest lecturer at Arizona State University. Brendan attained the CPESC in 2018.

A native of the Midwest, Christina fits in perfectly as National Business Development Manager. She grew up in Green Bay, WI and now dedicates her professional life to making our world a better place, with every effort to do the right thing to ensure business to business relationships are evolving and strengthening, while our environment is stabilized and compliant.

Christina has done much traveling through her college years, attaining both her Bachelor and Master degrees in Business with an emphasis in Communications and Management. As a military spouse in the past, she has worked with organizations to build programs for military veterans and their families along with continued efforts to expand the spousal network within the Marine Corp. Now Christina travels for successful business efforts and extra curricular fun, while building relationships throughout the United States. She has a passion for communication thus enlightening her surroundings with integrity. During valued spare time, Christina enjoys painting, outdoors and quality time with family and friends, most of all her beautiful girls.

As Earthworks upholds environmental standards, Christina believes "Life is not about waiting for the storm to pass, it's about learning to dance in the rain."

Brooks Morse brings global experience to his job as Compliance Manager for Earthworks Environmental. The Wickenburg, Ariz., native has traveled to three countries and worked in more than 20 states. He helped construct the Sacramento River Levee and he has worked on the Palo Verde Nuclear Power Station evaporation ponds and the Layan Sanitary Landfill for the island of Guam.

Those impressive credentials suit him well at Earthworks Environmental. Brooks is responsible for the inspection of storm water and dust control for residential developments and communicating concerns and activity to Earthworks Environmental clients.

Away from the field, Brooks enjoys camping with family and friends, hunting, playing golf, and traveling. He also enjoys cooking. His greatest personal accomplishment: hiking to the top of Smith Peak in the Harcuvar Mountains of west-central Arizona, harvesting a mule deer, and packing it back to camp.

The best business advice he’s been given: “To be successful, you have to be able to relate to people; they have to be satisfied with your personality to do business with you and build a relationship with mutual trust.”

That’s pretty worldly advice.

Throughout his career, Mark Hubbard has had a keen interest in environmental issues. Besides earning a Master of Science degree in environmental management from the Fulton School of Engineering at Arizona State University, Mark published an article in the Journal of Environmental Health on the effects of ozone on hospital visits for asthma.

Mark brings that expertise to Earthworks Environmental as Lead Compliance Manager for the newlycreated Florida office. His responsibilities include Storm Water Pollution Prevention (SWPP) manual preparation, notice of intent/notice of termination filing, SWPP program management, site inspections, permit compliance assistance, construction general permit (GCP) applications, street sweeping, and site clean-up. He will provide National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System/SWPP consulting services in Florida for commercial and residential development. It is one of the services Earthworks Environmental offers in Arizona.

A native of Warwick, R.I., Mark now calls Mesa home. Prior to joining Earthworks Environmental, Mark was Business Assistance Coordinator for the Maricopa County Air Quality Department. Besides his M.S. degree from ASU, Mark holds a Bachelor of Science degree in biology from Biola University in La Mirada, Calif.

When he’s off the clock, Mark enjoys watching movies and playing with his granddaughters and restoring a 1966 Corvette with his father.

Mark says the best business advice he’s been given is: “Always finish what you start.”

The best advice he has shared: “The most respected leaders are the ones that can identify and remove the roadblocks that keep others from achieving their potential.”

Richard joined Earthworks as a Compliance Manager in March 2018 to open the New Jersey/Pennsylvania/Delaware division. Prior to joining Earthworks Richard worked for 12 years in the fields of geotechnical engineering and construction inspection for both regional and multi-national engineering consulting firms.

Richard has completed hundreds of subsurface geotechnical investigations, storm water management investigations, and construction inspections at sites ranging from agricultural properties to active and closed commercial and industrial facilities for future development/redevelopment. His geotechnical investigation experience includes conducting field soil sampling, laboratory testing, and report preparation.

Construction inspection experience includes earthwork oversight, foundation construction, reinforcing steel installation, concrete placement and testing, and, masonry construction. Richard has several certifications for the construction inspection services that he provided.

Richard has also conducted subsurface geotechnical investigation and stormwater management investigation. These included conducting the subsurface field investigation, laboratory testing, and report preparation.

Richard is a graduate of Stockton University in Pomona, NJ with a degree in Environmental Studies and is a U.S. Air Force Veteran. Richard served as a Nuclear Weapons Team Chief.

When he’s not in the field, Richard enjoys coaching his kids sports teams, grilling, and being outdoors.

Matthew Trygg joined the Earthworks team in October 2018. Previously he's worked in the Natural Resource and Restoration Industries. Matt has worked on a wide range of projects ranging from Army Corps, townships, and home owners’ associations. Before coming a compliance manager, Matt worked installing BMPs and native landscapes, rising through the ranks into managing installation processes. Now as the IL division Lead, he takes pride in having learned the ropes as compliance manager and again rising up to now maintaining compliance for all of our clients, following NPDES and SWPP guidelines for the entire division.

Matt is native to Illinois, born and raised in the Chicago land region. He graduated from Illinois State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biological Sciences 2014. Matt is QCIS certified, DECI certified, and is currently working towards CESSWI certification.

Matt and his wife live in the Chicago land area. In his free time, he volunteers at the local elementary school and enjoys being a part of forest restoration projects.

The best business / life advice he’s been given: “If you’re not learning something new every day, you must not have gotten out of bed.”

Aaron joined Earthworks as a Compliance Manager in January 2018 after relocating from Ohio in June 2017. Prior to joining Earthworks Aaron worked for 10 years in the fields of environmental due diligence and contaminated site management for both regional and multi-national environmental consulting firms.

Aaron has completed hundreds of due diligence projects including ASTM E1527-05/13 and AAI compliant Phase I Environmental Site Assessment’s (ESA) at sites ranging from agricultural properties to active and closed commercial and industrial facilities primarily focused on manufacturing operations. He has completed dozens of limited compliance reviews that assessed a review of plans, permits, policies and procedures at industrial facilities for compliance with applicable air, storm water, waste water, chemical reporting, and universal and hazardous waste rules and regulations. He is also knowledgeable regarding ASTM E2600 vapor encroachment condition elements.

Phase II ESA experience includes field sampling and regulatory reporting related to hazardous substance and petroleum contaminated sites. He is knowledgeable regarding free product recovery, UST system closure sampling, soil boring and monitoring well installation, groundwater sampling and monitoring, PCB chip and wipe sampling, and indoor air and sub-slab soil gas sampling.

Aaron has also conducted work related to pre-renovation and pre-demolition asbestos inspections; health and safety plan development and inspections; and wetland delineation and impact assessments primarily focused on linear infrastructure projects.

Aaron is a graduate of Johnson State College in Johnson, VT with a degree in Natural Resource Management and is a U.S. Army Veteran. Aaron served as a Combat Engineer, Training Sergeant and Paratrooper and was deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom (Afghanistan).

When he’s not in the field, Aaron enjoys dual sport motorcycling, mountain biking, travelling, and enjoying the Arizona sunshine.

Martin joined the United States Marine Corps straight out of high school at 17. He enlisted as a small arms repairman but later moved into maintenance management. He was deployed for in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. He holds a degree in Computer Networking with an emphasis on cyber security. He doesn't envoy the cubicle life which is why he enjoys being a compliance manager with the Earthworks team. Plenty of fresh, dry air in Arizona. Not only does he help our clients stay in compliance, he is also our go to guy for our installations and social media.

On his time off, if he's not spending time with his family, beating his boys on some video games, or cooking, Martin enjoys doing anything that allows him to smoke his cigars in peace.

As an avid outdoor enthusiast, Jeremy Chang has always had a deep appreciation for the environment. Starting with Earthworks as an installtechnician in October of 2016 Jeremy brings perspectives from both sides of the environmental field. Shortly after working with in installation, Jeremy entered the compliance side and moved to assist the Earthworks Florida division. After a year and a half helping build the Florida division Jeremy spent time assisting other divisions with training the current compliance managers.

Jeremy specializes in SWPPP building, permitting, customer service, and problem solving. Using his experience in installation as wellas compliance, Jeremy offers practical and efficient ways to solve compliance issues to ensure our clients remain in good standing.

In his off time Jeremy enjoys spending time with family, mountain biking, bow hunting, camping, pretty much anything that gets him outdoorsand into nature.

Johnathan joined the Earthworks team as a compliance manager in July 2018. He was born and raised in central Florida. Prior to working for Earthworks, Johnathan was a Deputy Sheriff in Florida for 8 years. While working at the sheriffs office, Johnathan was a part of several different units to include crime suppression, narcotics and the tactical drug unit. Johnathan was also a member of the SWAT for over 5 years.

After his work at the sheriffs office, Johnathan started a small renovation business where he buys and renovates older homes.

While he is not working, Johnathan enjoys anything outdoors. Johnathan along with his father and brothers are currently section hiking the Appalachian Trail that stretches from Georgia to Maine. Johnathan will never turn down an offer to go fishing or diving.

Martin joined Earthworks in January 2018. Previously he's worked in the hospitality and warehouse industry, and was an instructor at the sheriffs office in multiple areas (firearms, driving, general topics, ect.). He was also a firearms, driving, simunitions and reality based training at the Police Academy and was certified to do all these things through the Florida Deptartment of Law Enforcement. Overall he has 15 years in law enforemcnet, 11 of those on SWAT.

He's been an avid competitive powerlifter since he was 14 (almost 32 years now) and has always been into health and fitness. Martin is an OCD recycler and has always cared about the environment which is why Earthworks is a great fit.

Jonathan Walters joined the Earthworks team in February 2019. Previously, he worked and interned for an excavation construction company assisting in safety and environmental compliance. Jonathan worked on a wide range of projects including transmission substation development, lateral underground fiber installation, and sensitive area pipeline crossings. As a Compliance Manager at Earthworks, he applies his knowledge in construction industry regulation and water quality management to ensure compliance at various sites across Ohio.

Jonathan is an Ohio native, originally from the Mansfield area. He received his Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Science from The Ohio State University in 2018. While at Ohio State, he focused on soil and water chemistry. Jonathan is also QCIS and OSHA certified.

Jonathan is involved in a lake awareness and monitoring program at his local soil and water conservation district. In his free time he enjoys boating, fishing, waterskiing, and just about anything to get him outdoors.

I was born and raised in Prior Lake, Mn and grew up in the country my entire life. I played basketball and football all the way throughout high school, and then went on to play basketball at Hamline University. While at Hamline University, I received my Bachelor’s diploma with a major in Environmental Studies and a minor in Business Management.

While attending Hamline University, I worked at Three River’s Park District doing a variety of jobs maintain the park. My junior year I traveled to South Dakota for a week to help the SD Fish and Game conduct a whitetail deer capture. I also volunteered with the MN DNR that served as my senior year internship.

After college I worked with our family business doing furniture refinishing and cabinet finishing until I got hired by Earthworks. I still help with that business on the side as well.

In my free time I like to fish and hunt! Working with Earthworks Environmental is especially gratifying to me knowing that I am helping keep Minnesota’s lakes, rivers, and streams free of pollution. It’s a good feeling knowing that you are helping keep some great fishing spots clean and free of sediment pollution.

Working with Earthworks Environmental has been great so far, and I am excited to see what the future brings.

Austin Stiles is a an outgoing and sociable individual who enjoys connecting with new people. He grew up in Johnston, Iowa, and attended the University of Iowa where he earned his B.B.A. in Entrepreneurial Management. While at UI, he took multiple sustainability classes where he became intrigued by strategies to preserve the environment. Austin was an executive member of ENACTUS, a social entrepreneurship organization, where he expressed his innovative mind to find solutions to sustainability, social, and economic issues in his community.

After graduation, Austin returned home to the Des Moines area where he became a compliance manager for Earthworks Environmental. This job suits him well as he is able to work alongside builders towards the common goal of meeting environmental standards.

Outside of work, Austin has a passion for attending concerts with his friends. This passion has led him to volunteer with organizations where he assists in the production of shows. He also enjoys being outdoors, whether that be playing sports, hiking, or simply relaxing.

Amanda Cemenski was born and raised in the small town of Le Sueur, Minnesota. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Communication Disorders from Minnesota State University-Mankato. In 2015, she decided to return to school at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls. There she took several environmental, conservation, and sustainability courses. In May of 2019 she graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Conservation and a minor in Hydrogeology.

While at UWRF she started to understand that her passion for the environment began with water quality. Taking hydrology, fate and transport, and hydrogeology courses solidified her drive to ensure that our water is healthy for us and all living things within the environment.

In August of 2019, Amanda joined the Earthworks team as an Environmental Technician and has recently became a Compliance Manager. In her free time, Amanda likes to travel to new places. When she is not traveling she likes to go hiking, reading, going to the gym, and spending time with friends and family.

Beginning with the company when it first began, Jace worked with the install crew for a year in a half before leaving to Montana where he received a scholarship for both academics and athletics. He was cut short due to a career ending injury of a labrum tear. He returned back to Arizona where he is now working on receiving his degree in Psychology. Jace recently became a Compliance Manager in May of 2019. With the knowledge of BMP installation as well as the work ethic Jace holds, superintendents find him very useful and appreciate his effort in keeping the site compliant. Jace is ECC, Rule 310, and OSHA certified. Jace’s step-mother is the company owner Cherie Koester.

In his free time, Jace enjoys spending time with family and friends. He recently graduated from John Casablancas acting school and enjoys performing in plays and hopefully one day in major motion pictures. He believes strongly in being active and keeping yourself healthy. He loves sports, dogs and aspires to follow out his dreams.

“The bad news is that time flies, the good news is that you’re the pilot.”

Steven was born and raised in Florida. He studied at the District School of Ministry for three years and became ordained in Ministry, while also owning and running his own successful landscaping business. In his free time, Steven enjoys playing outdoor sports, especially basketball, football, and ultimate frisbee.

Outside of his career and hobbies, Steven can be found spending time with his wife and their two children. He is a die-hard fan of both the Dallas Cowboys and Florida State Seminoles. Steven joined Earthworks in February of 2019.

Ben joined the Earthworks team as a compliance manager in May 2019. He was born and raised in Winter Haven, Florida. Prior to working for Earthworks, Ben was a claims adjuster at State Farm. He also played baseball in college and coached for a short period after.

While he is not working, Ben enjoys hunting/fishing and playing sports. He has competed in local sporting events and barbeque competitions.

Caroline serves as a Compliance Manager of the Houston Metro area and has loved learning about stormwater in the great state of Texas. She has lived in numerous states throughout her life, from California to Alabama, and spent her college years studying Sustainability at Arizona State University. She graduated Cum Laude from ASU with her Bachelor of Arts degree and took a seasonal position in Yellowstone National Park upon graduating. Shortly after the season ended, she made her way back to the southwest to begin her position with Earthworks.

Along with the rest of her team, Caroline is an outdoor enthusiast and an activist. She enjoys traveling around the country to experience America’s diverse terrain, as well as hiking, cycling, and enjoying quality time with friends at the many outdoor areas around Houston.

Caroline lives by the golden rule: “Treat others as you would like to be treated.”

Shane Joined the Earthworks Team in August of 2019 as a Compliance Manager. Before joining Earthworks, he was enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and deployed in Operation Inherent Resolve. During his final days in the Military he was able to receive his Emergency Medical Technician License through a local community college prior to ending his active service. He then worked as a Steel Maker for a short while before entering the Environmental Field.

Shane grew up most of his younger years in Southern Texas playing baseball and enjoying the outdoors. Him and his family later moved to Arizona where he met his now wife. He later moved to California where he was Stationed at Camp Pendleton while serving in the Marine Corps. In 2017, Him and his wife welcomed there beautiful daughter. He later moved back to Arizona and enjoys spending quality time with his family, hunting, and occasionally managing a Co-Ed Softball Team.

Blake joined Earthworks as a Compliance Manager in August 2019 to open the Colorado division. Prior to Earthworks Blake worked as Environmental Scientist and Biologist for various consulting firms. With professional experience in performing wetland jurisdictional delineations, writing California Environmental Quality Act documents, working with local regulators, and conducting various threatened and endangered species surveys. Blake is passionate about the environment and enjoys his current role for he can talk to people about how to preserve our wonderful landscapes.

Blake graduated from the University of Colorado Boulder with a bachelor’s in Environmental Studies and minor in Atmospheric and Oceanic Studies.

Outside of work, Blake enjoys hunting, fly-fishing, birdwatching, gardening, and spending time with family and friends.

Neil served in the United States Marine Corp during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Shipping out to bootcamp on September 11th 2001. He served two combat tours in the role of an infantryman. Neil is married with his wife and has two sons. Upon leaving the United States Marine Corps he worked in the construction field as a boom operator for a local Arizona concrete pumping company. When the economy to a downturn Neil took on a position to learn additional skills in the regulatory side of business. Conducting audits and inspections became second nature to him that would help him in the future when working for Earthworks Environmental. Achieving a Bachelors in Organizational Leadership, has also helped Neil in recognizing how to help clients to stay compliant while also staying within budget and on schedule.

In his free time he enjoys spending time with his family, working on cars, and staying physically fit.

Joshua (Josh) was born in sunny California but moved to Arizona at the ripe age of 9 and considers himself an Arizona native at heart who joined the Earthworks team in late 2019. After over 7 years of managing hundreds of employees and millions of dollars of inventory for a major retail chain and developing his trademark unparalleled work ethic and his eye for detail, he decided it was time for a career change.

As Josh has always been an avid outdoorsman and family man who loves hiking, camping, rock climbing and above all else, fishing, he has a unique passion for protecting our environment. Combining his top-notch work ethic, his eye for detail, and his love for the environment, Earthworks Environmental was a perfect fit!

In his free time, you can find Josh being the resident “handyman” for his family and friends, listening to country music, and (of course) fishing!

One of Josh’s favorite quotes is “Success is no accident. It is hard work, perseverance, learning, studying, sacrifice and most of all, love of what you are doing or learning to do.” -Pele

Jason serves as a Compliance Manager of the Delaware & Maryland area. He has loved learning about storm water and environmental compliance measures. He has lived in numerous places throughout his life, from Hawaii to Kuwait, and spent his college years at Penn State University. He graduated PSU with a Bachelor of Science degree in finance and economics.

Along with the rest of his team, Jason is an outdoor enthusiast. He enjoys traveling and experiencing America’s diverse terrain. Hiking, camping, and skiing are some of the activities he enjoys doing in his free time. Quality time with family at home and tending to home maintenance projects is his passion.

Jason lives by the golden rule: “Don’t look a gift horse in the mouth.”

Born and raised in Arizona, this native fits in perfectly as Earthworks’ Senior Technology Manager, based out of our Mesa, AZ office.

Having traveled when he was young, to England, France, China, Michael stayed in AZ, achieving a bachelor’s degree in Biology from Univ of AZ and has been employed in environmental field since 2008, primarily focused on air quality. Michael worked as a regulatory inspector, moved to policy/rule-making, performed technical analysis work to support State Implementation Plans, managed air emissions reporting program, and served as co-chair on a joint AZ & EPA project designing a new reporting program. Most recently, he worked as an air quality compliance and permitting lead for Miami Copper Smelter and currently serves as chapter secretary in the local AZ chapter of Air & Waste Management Association.

Outside of his ‘home office’ (thank you Covid), Michael enjoys hiking, camping, gardening, and spending time with his wife and son. He has always had an interest in computers and programming, where Earthworks has given him the opportunity to explore his new career focus in software development.

Michael’s favorite part about working at Earthworks is the optimum work/life balance which is very important.

I served in the U.S. Army from 2004 to 2008 after which I received my A.A.S. in Natural Resources Conservation followed by a B.S. in Aquatics and Fisheries Science. While going to college I participated in projects ranging from invasive species removal and cutting hiking trails to wetland construction and fisheries research from the state of Arizona to the state of Massachusetts.

While working on my Bachelor’s at the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry in Syracuse, NY I started an internship with a lake management consultant company working on low cost, environmental friendly management of invasive aquatic plants and lakeshore habitat improvement which lead to a full time position. Eventually I took a position with the U.S. Geological Survey as a biologist and participated in research focused on aquatic invasive species and endangered species. I have also worked several positions in the natural resource field with various state agencies and universities.

I joined Earthworks in February of 2019 and have enjoyed my time here. I am happy to part of a company that works to prevent environmental issues such as pollution and sedimentation. Previous experience has taught me that prevention is often the best and most cost-effective measure in keeping our aquatic ecosystems healthy.

In my free time I enjoy spending time with my family. We really like to go camping and exploring the Minnesota rivers, especially the St. Croix River!

David served eight years in the California Army National Guard as a Combat Engineer, executing multiple fire missions in the state as well as his most recent deployment in support of Operation Spartan Shield – Operation Enduring Freedom. Having returned home early in 2019, he continued to pursue his higher education and is nearing his goal in earning his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Project Management. He cares deeply about the environment and it’s preservation for future generations, and Earthworks has afforded him the opportunity to focus on his passion for project management while maintaining environmental compliance for his clients.

David lives with his beautiful wife in the West Valley. His free time is spent on the trails, playing sports with his friends, or riding his motorcycle through the beautiful Arizona back country. He is very grateful to be a part of the Earthworks team, and very much looks forward to what the future holds.

Braxton was born and raised in a small suburb outside of Green Bay, WI, before making the move to Arizona. Braxton initially joined Earthworks in its early days as a member of the install crew. During the Fall of 2017, he began attending Arizona State University while pursuing a degree in Construction Management. Braxton has worked for Team Fishel as a Wireless Small Cell Technician and for Meritage Homes as the intern to the Director of Land Development, all while balancing the demands of being a full time student. He is always looking to improve and advance, as is evident from his burgeoning education and work experience. Over the Summer of 2020, he held the position of Internal Auditor at Earthworks, and has now transitioned to Compliance Manager. He has amassed numerous certifications in the fields of homebuilding, compliance, and safety. Braxton says he feels right at home here, and with his impressive career trajectory at a young age, Earthworks intends to keep him feeling at home for quite some time.

In his free time, Braxton enjoys staying active and finding new and exciting experiences or activities. Always attempting to live by the words: “If opportunity doesn’t knock, build a door”. Braxton sees himself as a bit of an adrenaline junkie and go-getter, as he is always ready for whatever comes next. Whether that means preparing for his first solo skydive jump or planning snowboarding trips to Japan, he always wants to be known as ‘The Yes Man’ and has no plans to slow down any time soon.

Savannah joined Earthworks in 2019, working as both a Compliance Assistant and Operations Assistant. Her responsibilities include permit applications & modifications, recordkeeping & reporting, submissions to regulatory agencies, and other such tasks essential to the administrative compliance of Earthworks’ clientele. Savannah lives in Tempe, Arizona and hails from the Midwest. She is currently studying Urban Planning at Arizona State University, following two years of study in Architecture. She has her sights set on long term employment at Earthworks and has focused her college coursework accordingly.

Given the demands of being a full-time student, Savannah could not be happier to be working part time at Earthworks. The end goal of full time employment at Earthworks will be realized once she has earned her Bachelor’s Degree in 2021, and we are ecstatic that she has included us in her future plans. Outside of work and school, she enjoys working out and running with her husky. Staying active is very important to her as it mentally reminds her to push her limits and not be afraid to try new things.

Kobe joined the Earthworks Environmental team in July 2020. Kobe has lived in Richmond, Indiana his entire life until recently graduating from college and moving to Greenwood, Indiana. He received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Geology from Earlham College in 2020. During his time at Earlham College, Kobe was able to intern with the Richmond Sanitary District as the Conservation Education Intern. He worked with members of the Soil & Water Conservation District and Lead Sanitation Engineers completing sewer inspections, inspecting farmers drainage ditches, surveyed local sewer manholes, and attended state MS4 Stormwater meetings. Also, in his time at Earlham he got the opportunity to travel to Montreal for a summer term, visit Niagara Falls and Washington D.C., and play Division 3 football. Kobe is also Level 1 INDOT Construction Stormwater, OSHA 30-Hour, OHSA 40-Hour HAZWOPER and QCIS certified.

Kobe appreciates the Earthworks culture and the work-life balance. He feels everyone shares the same vision with a dedication to keeping clients in compliance while maintaining a fun and enjoyable atmosphere. In addition to that, Kobe enjoys a great degree of control and freedom within his job due to the trust earned from producing high-quality work and results. Working hard to maintain that level of trust keeps him engaged during work hours and allows him to thoroughly enjoy his pastime.

When not working, Kobe enjoys spending time with his girlfriend, family, friends, and his pets. Some additional hobbies of his include anything involving the outdoors, sports, and exercising.

John joined the Earthworks Environmental team in June of 2020. A recent graduate from Hanover College in southeastern Indiana, John previously worked with the Indiana Department of Environmental Management where he worked with the regulation team as a waste-water facility inspector. John worked closely with the Office of Water Quality, assisting with the tasks at hand for the IDEM commissioner and OWQ branch chief. At Hanover College, John graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology, a minor in Environmental Studies, and membership in the school’s Business Scholar Program.

Outside of work, John is an avid golfer and tennis player. He played college golf at Hanover and traveled to North Carolina, Georgia, and Florida to play in various collegiate tournaments. John also enjoys watching the Colts and the Padres when football and baseball season roll around. 

John’s favorite part about working for Earthworks is the independence. He definitely appreciates being able to problem solve on his own, and also appreciates the fact that there is an extensive supporting cast behind the scene always ready to help and assist.

Jaylei joined Earthworks in 2020 as an Operations Assistant. Her responsibilities include invoicing, recordkeeping, and overseeing the Accounts Receivable aspect of Earthworks. Jaylei currently lives in Queen Creek, AZ and originally grew up in Northern Arizona. She is currently studying General Business and plans to broaden her scope into Business Human Resources. Jaylei has her sights set on long term employment at Earthworks and has focused her college coursework accordingly.

Given the demands of being a full-time student, student athlete, and a single mom, Earthworks is fortunate that she still finds time to be a valued member of the team. Jaylei strives to accomplish her academic goals and become successful to support her son. Outside of the work atmosphere, Jaylei enjoys playing collegiate softball, traveling, and being outdoors!

Darla Ortega was born and raised in the Rio Grande Valley in south Texas. She earned her Bachelor's of Science in Psychology in 2012. In 2018, she decided to return for her Masters in Environmental Science graduating in Fall of 2019. During her education at UTRGV she became a graduate research assistant in the soil science lab and an active member of the agroecology program building sustainable food systems in the RGV.

In her extensive program she found her passion for nature, conservation, and sustainability. Darla enjoys yoga, biking, hiking, and discovering and visiting new and exciting places in her spare time. She loves spending time with family, tending to her garden, and cooking.

Matthew Manwaring was born in St. George, Utah and shortly moved to Denver, Colorado where he has been living for the past 22 years. He earned his Bachelors of Science in Environmental Science at Metropolitan State University of Denver in 2020. He spent his senior year working in Rocky Mountain National Park performing research on the effects of soil respiration at 12,500 foot altitude. Shortly after graduation he started his career at Earthworks operating in the Denver Metro area.

His hobbies include hiking and camping in the mountains of Colorado and climbing 14ers of the Rockies. Traveling also takes up a lot of his interests having backpacked the countryside of Iceland to tasting exotic food in Paris.

Working for Earthworks has given Matthew an exciting career working close with the environment and having a hand in protecting important ecosystems and resources of the United States. All while providing a responsible and fun working environment that not many get the chance to experience right out of College.

Joe was born and raised in Phoenix Arizona where he lives with wife and 3 sons. He earned a BS in Chemistry at ASU and upon graduation went to work for the Maricopa County Air Quality Department. Joe was a compliance officer specializing in Non Metallic Mineral Mining regulations during his 12 years with the department. He was proud to build relationships between the various government agencies he’s worked with and the regulated community.

Joe joined Earthworks as a compliance manager in August 2020.

When he is not working, Joe can be found in the garage woodworking, playing guitar or coaching football.