UP AND DOWN CALIFORNIA - ONE GEOLOGIST’S PATH TO A GREAT CAREER

Early career experiences can be challenging and there is always a deep concern “Is this what I really want to do?” My plans and career path changed many times before I found a job that I wanted to settle into. I completed Bachelor and Master of Science degrees from CA State Universities where I had the opportunity to build a good foundation of course and field work. I thoroughly enjoyed my MS research, and this led me to go for a PhD with the intention of eventually working in the oil industry. A summer job in Houston was very interesting, but I realized I really didn’t want that career path. Leaving academics and looking for work, led me to interviewing for geotechnical positions, an area I had no specific background in. This change in direction led to new skills and more training. During this transition I also made a point to get on the State’s “Assistant Geologist” list. After working 2 years in private geotechnical consulting, I accepted an offer to work at the California Geological Survey (CGS). When I first arrived, I was encouraged to obtain my Registered Geologist License “RG” (now Professional Geologist License, “PG”) which, when obtained, led to an immediate promotion. When CGS geologist positions were eventually reclassified to Engineering Geologist, having my RG license automatically placed me at “Range D” for that classification. Some of the technical review work at CGS requires a Certified Engineering Geologist, so to broaden my opportunities I acquired that certification. Over the last 31 years at CGS I have worked in mineral resources, regional geologic mapping, seismic hazards, public outreach, and as the chair of the CA Earthquake Clearinghouse (recently responding to the Ridgecrest earthquakes). Getting a good educational foundation, being open to post degree training, acquiring professional licenses, and keeping an open mind has been my path to a great career!