PROFESSIONALISM IN THE GEOSCIENCES: CREATING LEARNING AND WORK ENVIRONMENTS THAT ENSURE SUCCESS FOR EVERYONE

Where is professionalism taught in the Geoscience curriculum? Professionalism in the geosciences refers to the behaviors and attitudes of geoscientists as they interact with colleagues and students in the work environment and with the public in serving a wide variety of societal needs. A welcoming and inclusive professional “climate” is essential to attract and ensure the success of the next generation of geoscientists, particularly those from underrepresented groups. The principles of professionalism are based on the concepts of trust, respect, responsibility, fairness, and justice. The expectations and norms of professional behavior in the geosciences should be explicitly addressed throughout the geoscience curriculum in formal courses and daily departmental activities. Departmental norms must be established that address issues of microaggressions, implicit bias, and that empower bystander interventions. Professional society codes of conducts, training in ethical decision-making, and short and case studies of ethical issues can be integrated into regular course activities. Proactive steps can be taken by departments by participating in “climate surveys”, developing an inclusiveness statement for department websites and brochures, and through work with institutional support groups (affirmative action, counseling services) to develop prevention policies and response plans should issues arise (e.g., sexual harassment and bullying). Departments can develop diversity goals as a priority in their strategic plan. It starts at the top—departmental leaders must be expected to exhibit the highest standards of professional behavior. All members of a department can commit to daily “intentional acts of civility”. Everyone has the right to work in a safe, inclusive and productive environment. Take the steps necessary to make the Geosciences a profession is an attractive and welcoming career option for everyone.