TITLE: UP AND DOWN CALIFORNIA - ONE GEOLOGIST'S PATH TO AN AWESOME CAREER

Early career experiences can be challenging; it is not uncommon to ask "Is this what I really want to do?" My plans and career path changed several 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 32 years at CGS I have worked in mineral resources, regional geologic mapping, seismic hazards, and public outreach. Newly appointed as chair of the CA Earthquake Clearinghouse in 2019, I soon found myself responding to the Ridgecrest M6.4 earthquake and onsite for the M7.1 event. Looking back over the years, everything I learned along the way continues to be helpful. Getting a good educational foundation, being open to post degree training, acquiring professional licenses, and keeping an open mind has been my path to an awesome career.