Sarah Patterson holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering from Kansas State University. In 2000, she started her career with The Dow Chemical Company (Dow) as a run-plant engineer in production. In 2006, Sarah transitioned to the Polyethylene Pipe Technical Service and Development Group (TS&D). As a TS&D Research Scientist, her responsibilities included new business developments for various technologies using plastic materials to include non-pressure and pressure pipe applications.

In 2013, Sarah became the Technical Director of the Plastics Pipe Institute (PPI) and Chair of the PPI Hydrostatic Stress Board (PPI HSB). In 2019, she transitioned fully to the PPI HSB. Responsibilities include spearheading the technical board, which focuses on the long-term strength of thermoplastic pipe materials intended for pressure applications, and development of appropriate policies and procedures for the conduct of this activity; interfacing with >150+ manufacturers (domestic/ international). Over the years, industry participation includes PPI, ASTM (F17, D20, E07), ISO TC138 (SC2, SC4, SC5, SC8), ASME (BPV, NPPS), ASCE, CSA B137, PE100+ Association Advisory Council and the Plastics Pipe Conference Association (PPCA) BOD.