WHERE CAN A DEGREE IN THE GEOSCIENCES TAKE ME? A STATE GEOLOGICAL SURVEY PERSPECTIVE

Despite declining enrollments in geoscience programs, the opportunities and need for early career geoscientists in all sectors have never been greater. As global climate and energy challenges reach the forefront of public policy, the skillset of the geoscience workforce is in high demand. State geological surveys continue to play an important role by providing unbiased and sound geologic information to the public, industry, academia, and government agencies for a variety of decision-making purposes. This presentation will highlight the diversity of geoscience work in state geological surveys and provide noteworthy case studies of the Applied Geology profession, as well as demonstrate the benefits of government employment. Notable examples of how student/employer networking and connections have resulted in mutually beneficial professional relationships will also be examined.