Olivia grew up surrounded by lettuce fields in Salinas, CA. As a member of FFA, she raised various livestock to show and sell at local county fairs. This is where her passion for agriculture and appreciation for food began.

While attending community college she worked as a Biological Science Aid at the USDA - ARS. She assisted multiple scientists with different research projects related to organic farming as well as fumigation alternatives for the control of soilborne diseases of strawberries. Olivia quickly became fascinated by plant diseases and beneficial insects.

She transferred to Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, and obtained a bachelor's Degree in Agriculture and Environmental Plant Science with a Concentration in Plant Protection. Soon after graduation, she began working as a lab technician at Tri Cal Diagnostics gaining hands-on experience managing a greenhouse and diagnosing plant pathogens such as fungi, bacteria, viruses, and nematodes.

Olivia’s long-term goals include becoming a plant pathologist and being able to give back to the community through teaching. As an educator, she hopes to empower young leaders and share the importance of fueling their bodies and minds. She wishes her love for science and getting her hands dirty inspires the youth in the same way her mentors have inspired her to pursue a career in agriculture.