What professional hat do you wear?
Most of the time, it’s a hard hat for working on a mine site; however, as an environmental consultant for a small company, I wear a lot of different hats. I am responsible for IT, HR, business development, safety, and project management.
What does a day in your life look like now?
“Typical” days don’t happen often as each project has dynamic needs, but my days can be categorized as either field days or office days. In the field, my days are comprised of visiting reclamation on mine sites collecting vegetation and soils data to assess project goals. While in the office, I spend my time analyzing data and preparing reports for various regulatory agencies.
What inspires you to go to work every day?
On field days, I really enjoy working outside while examining and experiencing restored ecosystems on the ground. These experiences are valuable as we try to improve restoration outcomes.
In the office, I really enjoy evaluating our collected datasets and identifying trends with long term data to solve unique problems mining operations can create.
How did your degree set you up?
My degree gave me tools to be successful as a professional. In school, I learned plant identification skills, ecological principles, GIS capabilities, and soils knowledge that I use on a daily basis. My degree preparation and on-campus involvement allowed me to collaborate with other professionals and put my skills into practice.
What words of wisdom can you offer current students?
Written communication is vital. Whether communicating with colleagues and clients via email or composing a technical memo or report, clear and concise written communication is essential to success.
What motto do you live by?
Do it with passion or not at all.