Dr. Muhlestein is the Director of the National Spill Control School (NSCS) and an academic and research Professor. He received his doctorate in Environmental Science and Engineering with a BS in Geology, and MS in Environmental Science from the University of Texas at San Antonio.
His dissertation used remote sensing techniques to acquire thermal infrared data and process analysis to isolate anomalous targets. This target detection protocol is applied to detection of cave and karst features in aquifer recharge zones and can be used for many other applications.
Dr. Muhlestein’s leadership and research have opened significant opportunities for students as well as other research faculty. Collaboration across departments and agencies continues to be a driving focus for the success of NSCS, CBI, and TAMUCC. His research has broad impact on the environment around the state and in the Coastal Bend region. He is a licensed Professional Geologist; he has extensive knowledge and experience in the oil and gas industry as well as environmental laws and regulations.
Dr. Muhlestein teaches hundreds of commercial and academic students around the country each year covering emergency response, chemical handling, communications, and leadership. He has worked with TX A&M Center for Applied Technology (TCAT), TX A&M Experiment Station (TEES) and is now with the Conrad Blucher Institute (CBI).