Mackenzie Pylate

Welcome! I’m a master’s student in Geography at the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs (UCCS), driven by a passion for using geographic tools and perspectives to confront real-world issues. My focus lies in understanding the complex relationships between environmental systems and human communities, with a particular interest in sustainable water resource management.

My academic journey began at Colorado State University, Fort Collins, where I earned a bachelor’s degree in Political Science and International Studies, along with a minor in Arabic Studies. During my undergraduate years, I developed a fascination with the intersection of environmental change and vulnerable communities. This passion evolved into a commitment to finding solutions that balance ecological preservation and human development—particularly in hydrology.

Beyond academics, my experiences have shaped my approach to problem-solving and fieldwork. As a NOLS Wilderness First Responder, I’ve gained valuable skills for working in remote and challenging environments, which fuels my dedication to outdoor conservation. My long-term vision is to help mitigate the impacts of climate change on water resources while promoting equitable solutions that can be applied worldwide.

Through this platform, I aim to showcase my academic journey and share insights into using geographic analysis to address real world issues. Thank you for joining me as I explore meaningful ways to create lasting, positive change.