AN ENGINEERING GEOPHYSICIST AT THE CORPS OF ENGINEERS

This presentation demonstrates that individuals shape their own careers, somewhat independent from their specific work roles. The US Army, Corps of Engineers (CoE) became interested in the application of engineering geology to its projects in the mid-1960s, as did many large engineering organizations. The St. Louis District, CoE hired me in the early 1970s to assess potential dam sites within the Meramec River Basin (MRB), MO for karst in abutments of the potential dam sites. The MRB is known for its caves, springs & losing streams. As the first, & for a decade the only, geophysicist in a District Office, I was able to purchase geophysical equipment, conduct investigations, & recommend site exploration. I found a large cave in the distant north abutment of a dam site. I contributed to environmental research, so that vibrations did not impact hibernating Indiana Bats. The successful use of geophysics at dam sites led to the expansion of geophysics along levee alignments & for other purposes within the CoE. Expansion of the federal dam safety program after the Teton Dam failure allowed me to recommend earthquake resistant measures for Central US dams around the New Madrid Seismic Zone. With the advent of environmental concerns, particularly dioxin contamination & to avoid fish kill from underwater blasting, I was able to develop geophysical expertise for the CoE & for our geologic practice. Although retired from the CoE, I still occasionally work for CoE HQ & varied districts. Without my full realization, I performed “career shaping” by noting when geophysics might work well & producing a timely product, or by advocating other investigations when geophysics would not be productive. Proactively fill the needs of your office with your expertise, your work will be enjoyable & your career should easily advance.