Erin Mankevich, a Pittsburgh native, began her dance adventure at a local studio. Starting with a ballet base, she soon expanded her skills by taking jazz, tap, lyrical, pointe, and modern classes. As a young dancer some of her accomplishments ranged from local performances and annual recitals, to a successful time as a competitive dancer. During her early years, Erin was a student assistant and also  co-founded the Burchfield after school dance program with her sister at the age of 17. This is when she began to turn her dream of teaching and choreographing into a reality. Shortly after, while still in high school,  she took her dance training to the next level by attending the La Roche College dance program. After graduation, her journey  shifted to Point Park University. There, along with her acceptance as a jazz major, she was awarded the highest apprenticeship in the dance program. Expansion and growth as a dancer continued through training, auditions, and performance opportunities.

Throughout her training, Erin has been influenced by teachers such as  Kenneth Nickle, Marion Petrov, Nicholas Petrov, Judith Leifer Bentz, Douglass Bentz, and many more. With the knowledge received, she has been able to  share her passion with various dance schools throughout the Pittsburgh area. However, she is most proud to call PineTree Performing Arts Center her dance home since 1997.