Born and raised in San Jose, California. Has a BS degree in Environmental Studies from Portland State University. Has a MS degree in Environmental Management from the University of San Francisco. She is a Grade 5 Wastewater Treatment Operator, a Grade 2 Water Treatment Operator, a Grade 2 Water Distribution Operator.

Prior to joining the wastewater industry she completed a year of service with AmeriCorps/California Conservation Corps providing energy efficient upgrades and retrofits for low-income housing on the Central Coast. She has been a wastewater operator at three facilities: City of Watsonville, South County Regional Wastewater Authority, and the City of Santa Cruz. Her experience includes enhanced biological nutrient removal Bardenpho extended aeration, trickling filter/solids contact, Title 22 recycled water, activated sludge, anaerobic digestion systems and cogeneration.