Meet Jenelle Scott, Spokane-Based Air Quality Specialist Serving Eastern Washington

Where are you from and where do you live now?

I was born and raised in Missoula, Montana. I went to college in Bozeman, Montana, where my grandparents both went. Afterward, I spent 8 sunny years in Albuquerque, New Mexico, but eventually came back to the Inland Northwest. I’m currently living in Spokane Washington.

What do you do at MFA?

I am a Project Air Quality Specialist at MFA, but I also work on water quality and hazardous waste management. My role is to help clients understand what they need to do to comply with environmental regulations. This could include obtaining an air or water permit, performing a compliance inspection, or completing a report. 

What do you find rewarding about your job?

I want our clients to be successful in complying with regulations while still being able to operate profitably. When a client is able to manage their day-to-day compliance independently, I feel that I have been successful.

Why is what you do important?

I balance protecting our environment with enabling people in our communities to support their families while producing the goods and services we enjoy in our daily lives.

What skills do you bring to your work?

I am a problem solver, listener, and advocate. I can communicate complex regulations in simpler terms. I am creative and enjoy helping people learn and grow in their profession.

If you were not an air quality specialist, what would you be?

I’ve always been fascinated with the mind, so something in the psychology world would be interesting. I could also see myself as a travel planner.

What do you like to do off the clock?

I enjoy practicing yoga, watching sports (especially football and our local Spokane Chiefs hockey team), and riding my bicycle on a beautiful sunny day. I love spending time with my husband, two kids, and sometimes our dogs. I also play the organ at our church and recently was mysteriously promoted to “Music Director.”

What’s on your bucket list?

I want to travel more. Seeing Machu Picchu is on my bucket list. The Galapagos islands are a stretch dream. I also intend to explore more of America’s Southwest.

What was your favorite childhood activity?

My favorite pastimes as a child were reading and playing outside. I easily beat the Dairy Queen summer reading challenge every year.

What’s your favorite restaurant/place to go in your area?

My favorite elegant restaurant in Spokane is Clinkerdagger, which is primarily steak and seafood.  I will also eat Mexican food any chance I get.