Demonstrating expertise in compliance across multiple areas, Kelsey A. Hawkins, PMP, has established a distinguished career in environmental planning and project management. Over the course of nine years, she has advanced through a series of roles of increasing responsibility, culminating in her current position as project manager II at Harris & Associates Inc., which “improves communities and creates better places to live through smart, safe, sustainable planning, design, and construction solutions.”
Born in Orange, California, Ms. Hawkins developed an early passion for nature through hiking, fishing, camping, and visiting national parks with her family. These experiences inspired her to pursue environmental sciences as a field of study in college under the guidance of an adviser, who later introduced her to consulting work related to environmental planning.
In her current position, Ms. Hawkins oversees a diverse portfolio of development projects, including single-family housing, multifamily residential complexes, and large arenas. She coordinates with internal teams, meets with clients, reviews documents, and provides technical comments. As a technical specialist in noise, Ms. Hawkins performs noise surveys and measurements to ensure regulatory compliance. Her responsibilities also include managing project documentation, delegating tasks, facilitating team collaboration, and maintaining clear communication channels to align project objectives.
Ms. Hawkins initially joined Harris & Associates Inc. in 2018 as an environmental analyst before being promoted to deputy project manager, project manager, and then to her current role. Prior to that, she worked as a stormwater sampling technician consultant with the KCM Group. She gained experience earlier in her career as a product development specialist with PVT Launchpad, a market research analyst with PrimeValue Technology, and a sustainable farming intern with Renewable Farms. Her career started in 2015 as a member of the product development and marketing team at LinkPoints, a consumer electronics and telecommunications company based in Los Angeles.
The foundation for Ms. Hawkins’ success lies in her academic background. She obtained a bachelor’s degree in environmental sciences from San Diego State University in 2015. Subsequently, she earned a master’s degree in environmental studies from California State University, Fullerton in 2017. Dedicated to continued self-improvement, she has further solidified her skills through professional training. Among other credentials, Ms. Hawkins is certified in budgets and hybrid project management through LinkedIn and in Occupational Safety and Health Administration 10-hour construction training, first aid, and CPR through 360training. As of 2025, she has earned the certified title of project management professional (PMP) through the Project Management Institute.
Further reflecting her commitment to professional growth, Ms. Hawkins is active with multiple industry organizations. Since 2025, she has served as the director of the San Diego chapter of the California Association of Environmental Professionals, where she also previously served as chapter president for several years. She previously aided this organization as the student membership and outreach director. Additionally, she has been a member of the American Planning Association since 2018.
Lauded outside of her profession for her civic contributions, Ms. Hawkins regularly volunteers her time. Her past endeavors include serving as secretary of the Environmental Science Student Society, working as a food server at the Urban Angels Soup Kitchen, serving on the donations team for the Kiwanis Club, and being a member of Sigma Alpha Lambda, a national honor society devoted to fostering leadership among its members.
Ms. Hawkins credits her achievements, in part, to the exceptional mentorship she has had access to throughout her education and career. Outside of her work life, she continues to enjoy spending time in nature as well as golfing, playing beach volleyball, and reading.
Pondering the future, Ms. Hawkins aims to take on larger, more complex projects within Harris & Associates Inc., aspiring toward leadership roles on project teams. Building on more than a decade of experience so far, she is eager to embrace any opportunities to manage staff directly. These goals offer a glimpse into the next chapter of her story, shaped by commitment to community service, environmental stewardship, and professional excellence.