Patrick joined the WDNR invasive species program in October 2021. Prior to that, he served as the Sheboygan County Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Coordinator, working with local groups on aquatic invasive species monitoring, outreach/education, and mapping to protect priority State lands. He spent several years as an environmental consultant, often working with multiple stakeholders to address environmental issues and regulations. Patrick also has experience in environmental research and graduated with B.S. and M.S. degrees from UW-La Crosse and UW-Milwaukee, respectively, with focuses on environmental science and freshwater science and technology.

In his current position as Southeast Region AIS Coordinator covering the southern half of the Lake Michigan basin, Patrick serves as one of five full-time Regional AIS Coordinators stationed throughout the state, which represents a new model for the statewide AIS program. Patrick’s main responsibilities include conducting AIS response and pathways monitoring, along with serving as the WDNR AIS Regional Contact for Southeast Wisconsin. Other duties include providing guidance to Lakes Monitoring and Protection Network partners in the region, grant support, AIS data management, and helping with efforts to address the Organisms in Trade pathway. Patrick is an avid Wisconsin sports fan and enjoys hiking, fishing, camping, canoeing/kayaking, and spending time with family, friends, his fiancé, and their two dogs.