Born and raised in Fairbanks, Alaska, Katherine has always felt a profound connection to the ocean and its wildlife. Her journey into marine science began at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, followed by the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, and later California State University, Monterey Bay (CSUMB).

While studying at UH Mānoa, Katherine volunteered at Sea Life Park Hawaii, where she contributed to the Green Sea Turtle Program. Her responsibilities included maintaining habitats, assisting with diet preparation for reef life animals, helping care for juvenile and older honu (Hawaiian green sea turtles), and supporting seasonal release efforts aimed at strengthening local sea turtle populations.

Throughout her academic years, Katherine also worked as a lifeguard for over six years at public, city, and military pool facilities. She earned her WSI (Water Safety Instructor) certification and taught Red Cross swim classes, building strong foundations in aquatic safety and education.

Back in Fairbanks, Katherine started her own mermaid swim program, where she taught students how to swim in monofins and mermaid tails. She also offered underwater mermaid-themed photo shoots, blending aquatic movement with creative storytelling.

After choosing to step away from traditional academics, Katherine shifted her focus to hands-on skill building—learning to work with silicone, run a business, and create one-of-a-kind, functional ocean-inspired art.

Now based in Central Florida, Katherine is the founder of Tiger Shark Mermaid, a dual-focused brand that combines custom silicone mermaid gear with a mission-driven trash valet service. Each product and service is carried out with craftsmanship, purpose, and a deep respect for ocean conservation and community well-being.

In addition to her creative and conservation work, Katherine is also dedicated to promoting sustainable, green energy solutions—including supporting and expanding access to solar power for homes, businesses, and communities that want to reduce their environmental footprint.

Whether she’s handcrafting wearable ocean art, rolling bins with shark-like dedication, or helping others make the switch to clean energy, Katherine leads with passion, innovation, and environmental integrity.