FIELD METHODS FOR FUTURE GEOLOGISTS - A FIELD PRACTICAL

As geologists affiliated with Pittsburgh Geological Society, we observed that geology majors often graduate without understanding what to expect in a typical environmental consulting project. The "Field Methods" workshop is an outdoor workshop that attempts to bridge the gap between college and the working world. Students have hands-on experience with drilling equipment, monitoring well installation, environmental soil collection and field screening techniques, soil and rock descriptions, and general field procedures. The workshop is set in the framework of an actual project with an initial discussion of work plans, mapping, contracts, and general health and safety. The workshop is a one-day event that is provided at a nominal cost to the student. Various professionals lecture on specific topics and mingle with the students during the demonstrations. A local drilling company, Geo-Environmental Drilling, donates equipment and employees. Lunch is provided by Pittsburgh Geological Society. The workshop, in its seventh season, is limited to 30 or 40 students and is typically offered in the spring. Former attendees have commented that listing the workshop on resumes has opened doors for employment.