Riley Balikian is a geophysics and hydrogeology professional with experience in resilience, environmental resources, and urban and regional planning. They hold a Doctor of Philosophy in Geology from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, a Master of Science in Urban and Regional Planning from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and a Bachelor of Science in Geophysics from Wheaton College. Balikian's work has been focused on understanding our place in the world and how we make use of resources around us. They have worked with non-profits, churches, businesses, and local and tribal governments to help optimize resource usage. Additionally, Balikian was formerly involved with Young Evangelicals for Climate Action (YECA) and has experience working with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and Lifewater International.