An environmental geology course first piqued Stephanie’s interest in environmental science. She followed this interest a step further, taking an early job as a forest survey technician where she conducted plant surveys around Seattle. Now she combines her love of science and the great outdoors in her day-to-day work. "I love a good mystery plant that I can correctly identify after some good ol' fashioned research," she says. Stephanie appreciates that Otak gives her many opportunities to learn new things and grow, and she has developed a particular skill for map and figure making in GIS. Outside of work she volunteers at the Woodland Park Zoo and enjoys clamming and Pisanki (Polish egg decorating).