Today we’d like to introduce you to Michael Bourne.
Hi Michael, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
IThe story of Bourne Environmental Consulting is rooted in personal loss and a lifelong commitment to protecting others. In 1985, just before my senior year of high school, my father passed away from mesothelioma — a rare, aggressive, and often fatal form of cancer caused by asbestos exposure. His contact with asbestos began during his service aboard a Navy ship in World War II and continued through his civilian career in an oil refinery. Asbestos was part of his work life for decades, and ultimately, it took his life.
After graduating from college, I was introduced to the asbestos industry and quickly realized how widespread asbestos remains in our everyday environments — in homes, schools, universities, government and military facilities, and commercial and industrial buildings across Texas. Determined to make a difference, I became licensed as an Asbestos Air Monitoring Technician, Asbestos Inspector, and Asbestos Project Manager, eventually earning my Texas Asbestos Consultant license.
In 2014, my wife, Jodi, and I founded Bourne Environmental Consulting, combining professional expertise with a deeply personal mission. Jodi also lost a loved one to mesothelioma, and together we understand both the technical and emotional impact of this devastating disease. That shared experience drives our commitment to raising awareness, protecting people, and helping clients safely manage asbestos in all types of spaces — from residential homes and historic buildings to schools, commercial sites, and public facilities.
Mesothelioma is a frightening and entirely preventable disease when asbestos is properly handled. At Bourne Environmental Consulting, our goal is simple: to educate, to protect, and to make every space — where people live, learn, and work — safer for generations to come.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The path to becoming a licensed Asbestos Consultant wasn’t without challenges. In the early 2000s, the state of Texas introduced additional educational requirements for licensing, which meant I needed to complete more science coursework beyond the college degree I earned in 1994. Balancing full-time work with evening classes, I spent several years steadily taking one or two courses each semester to meet the new qualifications. It was a long and demanding process, but in 2024, I achieved my goal and earned my Texas Asbestos Consulting License — a milestone that represents both professional growth and personal perseverance.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
At Bourne Environmental Consulting, our focus is on helping clients identify, manage, and safely address asbestos in all types of environments — from homes and schools to commercial, government, and industrial facilities. We work closely with property owners, contractors, and public agencies to ensure every project meets strict safety and regulatory standards while minimizing risk to workers and the public.
Education and prevention are central to what we do. I take pride in helping clients understand where asbestos may be found, why it’s dangerous, and how to manage it responsibly. By guiding people through the process, we turn what can often feel overwhelming into a clear, safe, and compliant plan of action.
What I love most about this work is that it connects technical expertise with purpose. Whether helping a school district maintain safe learning spaces, assisting a contractor on a renovation, or supporting a homeowner restoring a historic property, I know the work we do makes a real difference in people’s lives. At Bourne Environmental, our mission is simple: to protect people, preserve places, and promote awareness — creating safer spaces for our community now and for generations to come.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
While I don’t have a favorite book or podcast directly related to asbestos or environmental consulting, I’ve always been drawn to history and stories of military service. I enjoy reading books that explore the experiences, challenges, and resilience of those who served — especially during World War II. Those stories remind me of my father’s generation, their work ethic, and the sacrifices they made, which continue to inspire me personally and professionally.
I also love books about historical places and architecture. I’ve always had an appreciation for the craftsmanship and character of older buildings, which connects to the work I do today — helping preserve those pieces of history while ensuring they remain safe for future generations.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://bpecs.com
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelrbourne/
