Michaela LaPatin

Michaela LaPatin is pursuing her PhD in Civil Engineering at The University of Texas at Austin. She earned a BS in Civil Engineering and a Bachelor of Management from Bucknell University. She worked as an Assistant Project Manager for a general contractor and earned her Professional Engineering license prior to attending UT. Michaela grew up at the Jersey Shore but has also lived in PA, DC, SC, NC, and now in TX. When she’s not working, she enjoys running around Lady Bird Lake and attending yoga classes in Austin. 

Her research focuses on the intersection of water infrastructure, social systems, and policy. She spent a summer interning with the US Department of Housing and Urban Development and grew an interest in the challenges of housing and water infrastructure. On this project, she is interested in exploring training and workforce challenges. She has especially enjoyed spending time in Alaska and meeting with community members and leaders.