What I Do As a Principal Environmental Consultant, I'm like a detective for the environment. My job is to investigate how projects—like new buildings or roads—might affect nature. I'm responsible for protecting our planet while still allowing important development to happen. Here's what I do: I'm a student of nature: I study the land, water, air, plants, and animals to understand how a project could impact them. I look for things like endangered species, clean water, and important habitats like forests or wetlands. I'm a problem solver: If a project might harm the environment, I find solutions to prevent or reduce that harm. This could mean suggesting a different location for a building, creating new habitats, or using special construction methods to minimize pollution. I'm a communicator and a leader: I write reports, present findings to clients (like construction companies or government agencies), and sometimes even talk to the public. As a "Principal" consultant, I also guide other environmental consultants on projects. Essentially, I use my science knowledge, problem-solving skills, and communication abilities to make sure we can build the things we need without causing too much harm to the environment.
Why Engineering? My passion for environmental protection and outdoor work led me to my current career. I've progressed to the role of director, dedicating most of my time to devising environmental protection strategies. Initially, I worked on-site, traveling to various locations to clean and monitor the environment for any signs of degradation. This work is rooted in environmental engineering, which focuses on creating solutions to maintain the health of the environment or to restore it from the effects of pollution.
School Days I went to school for my Bachelor of Science in Geology at Temple University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. I then pursued a Master of Science in Environmental Engineering at the New Jersey Institute of Technology in Newark, New Jersey.
My Day At Work Currently, my work is primarily centered on devising strategies to maintain environmental health and monitor its condition. I also collaborate with diverse stakeholders, including government agencies, community groups, professional organizations, and academic institutions, to educate them on environmental stewardship and mining practices in the United States. Previously, my role involved extensive fieldwork, including collecting water and air samples, drilling monitoring wells, and participating in land reclamation initiatives. My career has provided me with the opportunity to travel and witness some of the most stunning and unique landscapes across the US.
Best Part The most rewarding aspect of my job is the knowledge that I contribute positively through effective environmental management and by educating others about the natural resources sector where I am presently employed.
Proud Moments I cherish numerous proud moments in my career, such as being chosen to work in the Netherlands, being selected for the Frontiers of Engineering program, and each instance I persuade a young individual to continue chasing their dreams.
Challenges In my field, the challenges stem from often being the sole woman or one of a few in the workplace. Specifically, in industrial environments, a fundamental issue is locating Personal Protective Equipment that fits properly, enabling me to work safely.
Dreams and Goals My dream is to continuously work to protect the environment and people living nearby the projects I work on in a consistent manner.
Inspiration My most significant influences include my parents, my middle school teacher, and various professors at Temple University. They have all shown belief in my potential and have dedicated themselves to offering me opportunities that have shaped my growth and the individual I have become.
Want to be an Engineer? For those contemplating a technical career, it's beneficial to explore STEM summer camps or similar programs. Additionally, consider contacting local businesses or university professors to inquire about shadowing opportunities.
Hobbies My hobbies include reading, hiking, snowshoeing, travelling, trying new foods, paddleboarding, kayaking, and dancing salsa, bachata, and merengue.