CTEH Spotlight: Miki Rieth

Miki Rieth, CTEH’s regional manager, has more than 15 years of experience in the oil and gas industry. Throughout her career, she has responded to some of the largest oil spills in the state of Louisiana—serving in both the command post and helping with on-site cleanup efforts. This week, we’re learning more about Miki and her work at CTEH:

What does your role at CTEH entail?

As a member of the major projects team, I’ve been part of the effort to build CTEH’s nationwide presence—with a specific focus on Louisiana. Since I started working here two and a half years ago, we’ve doubled our staff in New Orleans. In addition to these duties, I’m responsible for working directly with our industry partners and overseeing each client project from start to finish. I also undergo regular training and certifications, such as Incident Command System, HAZWOPER (Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response Standard), Behavior Based Safety, Benzene Safety Policy and First Aid/CPR to continually expand my knowledge base.

What brought you to CTEH?

While working at my previous job, I often reached out to CTEH for its expertise and support on projects involving industrial hygiene, occupational health and safety, air monitoring, toxicology—you name it. During these projects, I was constantly impressed by the CTEH’s employees’ professionalism and sound scientific solutions. When I learned CTEH was looking to expand in Louisiana, I knew it would be a perfect fit. The job opportunity complemented my current skill set, and I was able to offer my experience with the maritime industry to CTEH as it expanded its presence across the Gulf Coast region. 

What initially attracted you to the industry?

As someone who was born and raised in south Louisiana, I’ve always been around the maritime and oil and gas industries. After I graduated from Nicholls State University, I decided to jump headfirst into the industry. I started out working for a company that provided safety support for refineries across the United States, and I haven’t looked back since.

You often travel across the country for conferences. Why do you participate in these?
I regularly attend the Clean Gulf Conference & Exhibition, Louisiana Emergency Preparedness Association Annual Conference, Greater New Orleans Barge Fleeting Association Seminar, Inland Marine Expo, International WorkBoat Show and many others. These conferences allow me to network with other professionals, discuss industry-wide challenges and brainstorm how we can partner to better protect their employees, the public and the environment.

Which organizations are you involved with in Louisiana?

I’m an active member of the Women’s International Shipping & Trading Association, an international organization for women who are involved in the maritime transportation business and related trades; Gulf Inland Canal Association; and The American Waterways Operators. I’m a long-time volunteer with Bayou Interfaith Shared Community Organizing, an organization of faith-based communities that empower residents to make positive change; my church; and my children’s schools. I also stay busy with different Moms of Multiples Support Groups.

Connect with Miki on LinkedIn, or share your questions for her on CTEH’s Facebook.