Thayer appointed to Oklahoma DEQ Air Quality Advisory Council

Thursday, May 30, 2024

Media Contact: Aaron Campbell | OSU-Tulsa Communications Coordinator | 918-594-8046 | aaron.ross.campbell@okstate.edu

Dr. Michael Thayer, director of the Professional Science Master’s in Environmental Management program at Oklahoma State University-Tulsa, has been appointed by Gov. Kevin Stitt to serve as a member on the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality’s Air Quality Advisory Council.

The duties of Thayer’s position, confirmed by the Oklahoma State Senate this week, involve reviewing air quality issues affecting the state and providing expertise, along with the other council members.

“Dr. Thayer is an excellent choice for this position,” said Craig Freeman, interim vice provost and dean of the College of Professional Studies at OSU-Tulsa. “With his extensive industry experience and his specialized knowledge in assessing and mitigating environmental impact risks, the board and the state of Oklahoma will benefit greatly from his appointment.”

Thayer, who earned his Ph.D. and master’s in the Environmental Science program at OSU, began teaching at OSU in 2017. His initial research was focused on environmental management systems, which are used by organizations around the world to efficiently comply with environmental regulations and work to further reduce environmental impact.  

Before his position at OSU-Tulsa, Thayer worked in environmental health and safety for global energy services company NOV for 27 years, including as a regional health, safety and environmental director for the United States.

In his current role as director of the PSM in Environmental Management program, Thayer works to provide students with a springboard to industry-specific job opportunities, emphasizing technical training and development of in-demand business and leadership skills.

For more information about Thayer and his work with the PSM Environmental Management program, visit tulsa.okstate.edu/psm.