Dr. Sonja Leverkus is a resource professional specializing in the science of prescribed fire and ecological restoration. She leads all aspects of Northern Fire WoRx project work and operations. Dr. Leverkus holds a PhD in Natural Resource Ecology and Management from Oklahoma State University, with specializations in fire ecology and management, pyric herbivory, and prescribed fire. She mentored under John Weir, a preeminent and highly published leader in prescribed fire, and recipient of the Henry Wright lifetime achievement award by the Association for Fire Ecology. John Weir mentored under Dr. Henry A. Wright, a pioneer who revolutionized the use of prescribed fire on rangeland.

Dr. Leverkus is a British Columbia Registered Professional Forester, Registered Professional Biologist, Professional Agrologist, and a Canadian Certified Environmental Professional. Dr. Leverkus is also a Certified Wildland Fire Practitioner through the Association for Fire Ecology. She has extensive experience leading operational and strategic projects. Dr. Leverkus served on the BC Prescribed Fire Council and was the ecosystem restoration team leader for northeast BC during the course of her 6 years with the BC Forest Service. During the summer months, Dr. Leverkus also serves as an Ignitions Specialist for the BC Wildfire Service.

Dr. Leverkus grew up on a cattle ranch in Southern Alberta and the Rocky Mountains of BC, where she experienced firsthand the powerful forces of fire. She has lived remotely for the majority of her life, and is  passionate about integrating science with traditional, cultural and local knowledge to ensure thoughtful, applicable, and effective management of our natural resources.