Alumni Spotlight:

What I Do Now: I work at the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) in the Division of Water (DOW) as the sediment assessment and management program coordinator, where I oversee and coordinate work related to in-water construction and navigational dredging projects to ensure that issued permits or certificates are protective of water quality. I supervise two staff. I also coordinate project and program work with regional DOW staff and staff in several other NYSDEC divisions. My previous experience at NYSDEC as a state pollutant discharge elimination system (SPDES) permit writer helped me develop a strong background in water quality regulation and protection.

How the Hartwick Experience Impacted My Professional Life: The liberal arts focus at Hartwick allowed me to earn my technical science degree while also taking a variety of other classes, including enough to minor in political science and environmental politics and policy. When I left Hartwick, I did not know where my journey would take me and I had no idea that permit writing was a profession. However, looking back, regulatory work as a technical staff member of an environmental agency is the perfect fit for me. I love combining my scientific knowledge with my understanding of the regulations to ensure water quality is protected in New York State.

Challenges in the Field: One of my focus areas is consistency and process improvements. Our workload is ever-changing and expanding, and we have evolving staffing needs to address all of our important programs. The more we can create consistent and efficient processes, the more efficiently we can tackle our workload.

My Favorite Aspect of My Career: Working with so many great people and being exposed to a variety of perspectives. The work I do crosses many different divisions at DEC, so I get to work with many wonderful colleagues. I also get to interact with applicants and members of the public. Additionally, I love that the best way to be successful in my role is to embrace an interdisciplinary approach to work and to apply my scientific and regulatory thinking when problem-solving.

My Advice for Current Students: Don’t shy away from opportunities. Anything you try in life, even when it comes to jobs, will teach you something. You will walk away with new skills or knowledge, even if that knowledge is that you didn’t enjoy the work you were doing. You will gain skills wherever you go, whatever you do. You can’t always know what the next step is, so enjoy the step you’re on right now. Life is about the journey, not the destination.