Washington State University
Metropolitan Center for Applied Research and Extension
Interests:
Bridging the worlds of academia and community applied research, extension programming in metropolitan communitiesBio:
Brad Gaolach is a Professor for Washington State University Extension who focuses on community sustainability in Washington’s metropolitan communities. He is the founding director for both WSU’s Metropolitan Center for Applied Research & Extension and the Western Center for Metropolitan Research and Extension.
Prior to his current appointment, he served as the County Director for the two most populous counties in Washington State. Trained as a population and community ecologist, he is recognized for bringing systems and sustainability-based approaches to community-based applied research and education programs. Dr. Gaolach utilizes his training as a research scientist and ecologist to bridge the world of academia with community-based applications. Since joining WSU Extension in 2001, Dr. Gaolach has emphasized collaboration amongst the assets of WSU and community-based partners.
Brad often provides leadership on Center projects related to environmental stewardship, systems thinking, and organizational development. He has additionally conducted applied research and developed extension programs relating to water quality, climate change, agriculture, food systems, and community and economic development.
