Steph Gowing – Sustainable Business Coordinator
Where are you from? Tacoma, WA
What were you doing before you came to ECOSS? I directed a program called TacomaACTS (Alliance for Clean Technology and Sustainability) at the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber. Prior to the Chamber I worked for a small environmental consulting company for five years. In 2009, I got my Master’s in environmental studies from Evergreen State College, became a LEED AP and got certified as a Sustainable Building Advisor (CSBA).
What do you do day-to-day at work? I started in February so right now it’s getting to know the local programs and incentives that can assist the business community. I’ll be outreaching, connecting businesses to resources, and generally helping businesses implement sustainable practices in their operations. I’m excited to join the ECOSS team and look forward to working with Grow Seattle and the Seattle Climate Partnership.
What has been your favorite/most rewarding project at ECOSS? In my first couple weeks, I’ve meet some wonderful people that invest a lot in the South Park community.
If you could change one thing about Seattle, what would it be? More community gardens and local manufacturing and less single occupancy drivers. I can note three because I live in Tacoma.
Favorite spot in South Park: I have a lot of exploring still to do, but so far- the new library and the Duwamish Waterway Park.
What do I like to do outside of the office? I enjoy working on our 1912 house, bicycling, enjoying a good IPA with my husband, volunteer coaching at Sumner High School girl’s basketball and playing with our two dogs, cat and chickens.
Biggest goal for 2010: Educate and connect businesses to opportunities that can help implement sustainability in their workplace.