Title: Vice President of Geology
Company: WSP
Location: Traverse City, Michigan, United States
Leonard C. Mankowski, Vice President of Geology at WSP, has been recognized by Marquis Who’s Who Top Scientists for dedication, achievements, and leadership in environmental science.
Renowned for his stellar work ethic and his practical approach to designing solutions, Mr. Mankowski, has excelled as the vice president of geology at WSP, an environmental consulting company, since 2022. In this position, he is responsible for generating the best ideas possible while actively engaging in fieldwork. Mr. Mankowski’s professional path reflects a commitment to both scientific rigor and innovative thinking.
Before his current role at WSP, Mr. Mankowski found success at Wood Environment and Infrastructure Solutions as a senior geologist from 2006 to 2022. During this time, he honed his expertise in various specialized areas, including conceptual site model development, remediation design, chlorinated solvents, PFAS (per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances), hydrogeology, immobilization technology, and in situ technology. His outstanding knowledge within these specialties has helped cement him as a leading figure in addressing some of the most challenging environmental contaminants.
Mr. Mankowski previously served as a staff geologist and geophysicist at Inland Seas Engineering from 2005 to 2006. His prior experiences in the field were enriched by his tenure as an instructor of geology at Michigan Technological University from 2003 to 2004, where he offered his knowledge and passion for geology to the next generation of scientists. Mr. Mankowski has likewise maintained his affiliation with the American Institute of Professional Geologists.
To support his ambitions, Mr. Mankowski pursued an education at Michigan Technological University, from which he initially earned a Bachelor of Science in applied geophysics in 1999. He concluded his academic efforts at the aforementioned university in 2003, graduating with a Master of Science in geology in 2003. During his time at Michigan Technological University, Mr. Mankowski was presented with the MAGS Distinguished Thesis Award, highlighting his early contributions to the field.
Mr. Mankowski’s professional success can be largely attributed to his natural curiosity and his ability to effectively think outside of the box. He has consistently embraced challenges as opportunities to develop new methods and collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of chemists, biologists, and other experts. This collaborative approach has been crucial in his work, particularly in developing innovative solutions for environmental issues.
One of Mr. Mankowski’s proudest achievements is the development of a nature-based approach to addressing PFAS contamination. By using phytoremediation combined with biochar, he has pioneered a method to contain, rather than destroy, these persistent environmental pollutants. The first pilot of this method in Michigan three years ago marked a significant milestone, and its expanding application is gaining traction as a significant solution.
In addition to his professional endeavors, Mr. Mankowski is deeply involved in his community. He has been active as the head coach for Suttons Bay Middle School and Varsity Soccer Teams since 2019, and a volunteer teaching assistant at Leelanau Montessori since 2016. His commitment to youth and community development is further demonstrated through his long-term involvement with the Leelanau Soccer Club, where he has held roles as the board chair and coordinator for the Suttons Bay area since 2010. Additionally, he had contributed as a board member and chair for SEEDS, an organization focused on sustainable education and environmental stewardship, from 2008 to 2016.
Mr. Mankowski’s passion for geology was ignited in childhood, hunting for Petoskey stones in Michigan with his grandmother. This early fascination with the natural world was further fueled by a geology class taught by Dick Cookman, which solidified his decision to pursue a career in the field. Looking toward the future, Mr. Mankowski aims to bring a cost-effective in situ destruction mechanism for PFAS to market. His innovative spirit and dedication to practical, field-based solutions promise to continue driving advancements in environmental geology, benefiting both the scientific community and the broader society.
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