EVOLVING RESPONSIBILITIES OF A PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERING GEOLOGIST AND CONSULTING FIRM OWNER

Based on a career spanning 22 years as a licensed engineering geologist, a key lesson learned is the importance of continuing to develop the abilities and tools necessary to interpret disparate sources of data while communicating geologic complexities to others. The evolving demands and stresses on geoscience professionals starting their careers is even more apparent as a founder and co-owner of a consulting firm that integrates geologic interpretation with engineering services. Fundamental skills including technical writing, personal organization, and problem solving are more important than ever. It is not sufficient to develop a comprehensive understanding of a geologic problem, such as an active landslide or fault, without also understanding and communicating relevant information to the owner or engineer who wishes to fix their facility (pipeline, building, roadway). Discussion of project-specific issues and potential fixes with the client and other project professionals is vital. Communication has evolved from hard-copy reports to electronically-transmitted (PDF) reports and presentations, accompanied by interactive datasets (GIS and Google Earth) for engineers and decision makers to understand site conditions. Increasingly, freely available large data sets such as LiDAR, historic aerial and satellite imagery, and geotechnical databases allow for sophisticated desktop studies that can reduce field investigation costs. The ability to compile and rapidly integrate these multiple sets of information is essential to success as a consultant. However, as deadlines become tighter and the available datasets become more comprehensive, it is equally important to identify potential issues with different data sets and gaps in knowledge that need to be addressed by additional investigation. New and evolving data collection methods include GIS, drone imagery, and terrestrial LiDAR. The emergence of these new tools means young practicing geoscience professionals working towards professional licensure should consider obtaining expertise in data processing and interpretation, including experience with GIS and programming, and licensure for drone operation (FAA) for field data collection.