MEET THE TEAM.
The staff at EKISC are an enthusiastic team who strive to address the threats of invasive species with diligence, passion, and creativity. We are located through-out the East Kootenays in home-based offices; when necessary, joining forces at our office location in Cranbrook, BC. Together, we bring diverse expertise and experience in natural science, policy, economics, administration, communications, and education.
EKISC also benefits from the talents of summer students who join the team during our busy summer months, and from contractors who join the EKISC operations team in managing established infestations.
KATIE REID
Program Director
Katie brings to EKISC a love of the outdoors, extensive knowledge of Invasive Species, and a degree in Natural Resource Management. She joined EKISC in 2013 as the Field Operations Coordinator. Originally from Kamloops, the East Kootenays is a perfect fit for Katie's career and home life.
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ASHLEY GIBSON
Field Operations Manager
INCOMING
Ashley comes to EKISC with experience working on a variety of natural resource projects from agricultural land use in Brazil, to First Nation forest management, to environmental risk reduction projects in BC. She has a degree in international development and a master’s in environmental studies both focused on human-land relationships. Originally from Ontario, Ashley is drawn to the East Kootenays by her love for mountain activities.
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MEGAN MACPHEE
Program Assistant +
Communications
Megan is a passionate environmentalist, with extensive knowledge and appreciation of our natural world. She is creatively inspired by our landscapes which stems from over a decade of hands-on experience, ranging from work in parks, fisheries, forestry, geology and recreational tourism. She thrives on community engagement, relishing every opportunity to contribute positively to the places she holds dear.
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EMMA STRIVIG DE GROOT
Field Operations Manager
OUTGOING
Emma has channeled her love of nature into a career in conservation. She has worked on numerous projects across the world, from the pacific islands of Hawaii to the grasslands of southern Saskatchewan. She moved back to the mountains in 2020 and has focused her energy on learning about, and exploring, the ecosystems of the East Kootenays.​
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CONNOR AMY
Field Operations Coordinator
Connor holds a degree in Environmental Science and has always been deeply connected to mountain life. Originally from Central Alberta, she spent every summer in the East Kootenays before making it her permanent home. With expertise in invasive plant treatment, a talent for building strong relationships, and experience working with various Non-Profit Organizations, Connor has found a perfect fit with EKISC.
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