Jake Wagner

Jake Wagner is a Scholarly Assistant Professor in the School of Economic Sciences at Washington State University. He received his Ph.D. in Economics from Washington State University in 2020 and holds a BA and BS in Economics and Mathematics from Western Washington University. His research focuses on Discrete Choice Econometrics, Development Economics, Environmental and Resource Economics, and Transportation Economics.

• Education:
  • PhD, Economics, Washington State University – 2020
  • BA, Economics, Western Washington University – 2016
  • BS, Mathematics, Western Washington University – 2016

Wagner's research intersects four primary areas: Discrete Choice Econometrics, which involves modeling individual decision-making processes; Development Economics, particularly in rural contexts like Kenya; Environmental and Resource Economics, examining natural resource allocation and sustainability; and Transportation Economics, focusing on urban mobility and pandemic-related disruptions.

Recent publications highlight Wagner's engagement with post-pandemic recovery strategies and transportation efficiency. Key works include a decision support tool for rural water supply planning, analyses of commuter behavior and parking decisions, and studies on pandemic-related shipping container and labor shortages affecting agricultural trade. These articles reflect his commitment to addressing real-world challenges through economic modeling and policy development.

Wagner has secured significant grant funding for his work on transportation planning. He served as Lead-PI for a $40,000 grant (plus in-kind match) from Pullman Transit to create planning tools for transit managers, and as Co-PI for a similar $40,000 grant from WSU Transportation Services focused on parking planning. These grants underscore his role in developing actionable solutions for urban and regional transportation systems.