Louisa is a global leader dedicated to advancing process safety through education, collaboration, and innovation, working to build a safer, more sustainable future. With more than four decades of experience in process engineering, risk management, crisis response, and emergency preparedness, she brings a global perspective to process safety leadership.
From 2010 to the end of 2023, Louisa served as Global Technical Director at AIChE’s Center for Chemical Process Safety (CCPS), providing strategic guidance, shaping best practices, and fostering international partnerships to strengthen process safety initiatives worldwide. Her experience spans site operations, corporate risk oversight, and major incident investigations, ensuring a comprehensive approach to process safety excellence.
A recognized keynote speaker at global forums, industry conferences, and universities. Louisa is committed to sharing insights that enhance resilience and operational reliability. She is a CCPS Emeritus Member, AIChE Fellow, and CCPS Fellow. She is pursuing a PhD in Safety Sciences at Indiana University of Pennsylvania and continues to deepen her expertise in risk assessment, safety methodologies, and industry best practices. In 2023, she was recognized with the Women in Chemical Engineering Mentoring Excellence Award. She was named one of Industry Era Women Leaders, Top-10 Inspiring Women. That same year Process Safety Progress Magazine recognized her as a” Legend in Process Safety”.
In 2025, CCPS dedicated its publication Guidelines for Preparing Process Equipment for Maintenance and Return to Service (AIChE, April 2025) to Louisa, honoring her lifelong commitment to process safety and her embodiment of the CCPS Vision: “A World without Process Safety Incidents.” Her passion, achievements, and tireless dedication have advanced the field and touched the lives of many.
Education and Certifications:
- Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering, West Virginia University 1981
- Master of Science in Environmental Engineering and Water Resources, Villanova University 1989
- PhD student, Safety Sciences, Indiana University of Pennsylvania, expected graduation date 2027
- CCPS Certified Process Safety Professional – CCPSC – 2014
Specialties: Strategic Planning and Execution of Process/ Operational Safety, Risk, Health, Environmental, Safety, Security, Emergency Response, Crisis Management, and Compliance.