Emily Gerkin, Associate Partner

Emily Gerkin, Ph.D., is an Industrial-Organizational Psychologist who brings a data-driven yet deeply human perspective to leadership development, talent assessment, and executive coaching.

Her experience across government and corporate settings has shaped her into a well-rounded leadership development professional. While working with Vantage Leadership Consulting, she conducted leadership assessments and bridged scientific rigor with practical business applications. With organizations like NASA, The National Science Foundation, and the U.S. Army Research Institute, she helped develop innovative team training programs and leadership frameworks that enhanced communication and leader performance. These experiences honed her ability to translate psychological insights into actionable strategies that drive meaningful leadership growth.

Emily's collaborative approach to leadership development centers on identifying individual strengths and growth opportunities while aligning with organizational and business objectives. She excels at facilitating feedback processes and creating personalized development plans that enable leaders to thrive in increasingly complex business environments.

When not consulting, Emily usually has her head in a book or enjoys being outside—no matter the weather. She likes baking shows and attempting some creations herself, although they do not always turn out as nice as on TV, and hiking with her dogs.

Career Highlights

  • Research Associate for Vantage Leadership Consulting
  • Consultant for Ford Motor Company 
  • Consultant and Researcher for NASA, U.S. Army Research Institute, National Science Foundation, and Michigan State Police 
    

Education

  • PhD, Michigan State University
  • MS, University of Georgia 
  • BA, University of St. Thomas, MN
    

Professional Affiliations & Certifications

  • Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology
  • Society for Consulting Psychology
  • Minnesota Professionals for Psychology Applied to Work