Linda Bilsens Brolis
About Linda Bilsens Brolis
Linda Bilsens Brolis is a Project Manager at the Institute for Local Self-Reliance, where she leads initiatives in community composting. She has extensive experience in sustainable energy and agriculture, having held various roles in organizations focused on environmental practices.
Current Role at Institute for Local Self-Reliance
Linda Bilsens Brolis serves as the Project Manager for the Composting for Community initiative at the Institute for Local Self-Reliance. She has held this position since 2013, contributing over 11 years of experience in the Washington D.C. Metro Area. In her role, she leads efforts to advance on-farm composting and manages the Neighborhood Soil Rebuilders Composter Training Program. Additionally, she is involved in developing a national replication toolkit for the Neighborhood Soil Rebuilders program.
Previous Experience in Sustainable Practices
Prior to her current role, Linda Bilsens Brolis held several positions focused on sustainability and environmental practices. She worked as a Carbon Finance Project Consultant at Hydrologic Social Enterprise in 2012 for four months in Phnom Penh. From 2008 to 2011, she was the Training and Special Events Coordinator at EnergyLogic. She also co-founded and co-chaired the Colorado Chapter of Efficiency First from 2009 to 2011. Additionally, she served as an Independent Sustainable Energy & Agriculture Consultant at MemeTree from 2011 to 2014.
Education and Academic Background
Linda Bilsens Brolis earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, where she studied from 2003 to 2007. She also attended GVV from 1998 to 2002, although specific details regarding her studies there are not provided.
Contributions to Composting and Soil Health
Linda Bilsens Brolis has made significant contributions to the field of composting and soil health. She was the lead author of the 'On-Site Bin System Composting Guide' published by the Institute for Local Self-Reliance in 2016. She has led a nationwide survey of Master Composter training programs and co-authored the Healthy Soils and Compost Policy Guide. Her work includes creating composting learning activities and participating in webinars related to composting and soil health.
Professional Development and Leadership
Throughout her career, Linda Bilsens Brolis has demonstrated leadership in various initiatives related to composting and sustainability. As the Associate Director for Education and Advocacy for the Composting for Community Initiative, she plays a key role in promoting best management practices for community composting, supported by EPA Region 4. Her efforts aim to enhance community engagement and education in composting practices.