Pathways to Climate Careers: The Undergraduate Cohort Career Panel
Climate Sciences is a growing field seeing expansion in both educational and career pathways. This growth is seen within UW as more and more students partake in climate change courses, programs, and research. As education in environmental and climate sciences expands, knowing where to take a climate education beyond college is important. To address this, UCo, The PCC’s Undergraduate Cohort, hosted the “Careers in Climate Panel.”
The panel, hosted on the evening of Tuesday, February 13th, featured professionals currently working in climate-focused careers, including UW and PCC alumni. UCo and MC, Lauren Henrie, welcomed panelists from various climate careers in the greater Seattle area. Panelists included Carey Schafer from EcoAdapt, Katie Keil from 48 North Solutions, Nicole Briggs from EPA, Carrie Lee from King County Executive Climate Office, Jimmy Krajil from the Washington State Department of Ecology, and Ruby Moore-Bloom from CETI. The session opened with introductions as panelists shared about themselves, their educations, and their pathways to their current roles. Each had a unique story to share through misfit bachelor’s degrees, career changes, and the evolution of personal interests.
The discussion welcomed questions and honest responses. The conversation thrived off of similarity as the panelists shared the inner workings of their roles. Many operate within teams in a hybrid model, splitting their time between remote and in-office work. This style was a bonus for some as work is more accessible and flexible in their lives and commutes. Others said although it is convenient, they missed office culture and getting to work closely with others. Prompted by a question from the audience, panelists also expanded on their typical schedules and work, painting a picture of their daily operations. This information may seem trivial, but it helps students understand what type of position best fits their personality, skills, and lifestyle.
The discussion weaved between highlighting the positive and negative realities of the workforce. Finding the right job after graduation can be challenging and career shifts are common. One panelist shared they felt lost after finishing their undergrad in geology with no interest in the research they planned for. Others carried degrees and backgrounds in unrelated fields and later decided to fulfill a new passion. Some panelists found their fit in the private sector and others thrived in public and governmental roles. Many of the panelists shared that environmental consulting was a key part of their journey to their current position.
The topic of consulting was popular as many of the panelists currently or previously worked in consulting. They noted that it is a very common job for those in environmental fields. There were mixed reviews of their experiences within consulting. Many said there is a discrepancy in the quality of the work environment with consulting. Managing long billable hours was challenging while having a life outside of work. Others struggled with having different goals and views than the companies they worked for. It was noted that where you work and who you work with play a significant role in the experiences to be had. Many of the panelists thrived and still work in consulting alongside teams that support and uplift them and their projects. One key detail shared about consulting was the depth of knowledge to be learned in such a short time. It was a chance for many to deep dive into niche topics and expand their depth of knowledge, sometimes learning on their feet to satisfy a project. All agreed that this was a very valuable experience, especially in their career growth.
Environmental consulting is not only a common but also an accessible career after graduation. With the ability to develop skills and knowledge in such a short time, it can be a valuable stepping stone to other pathways. Many noted it is much easier to get hired out of college into a consulting firm than other governmental positions. One panelist shared that government positions are often highly competitive and in their experience the application and hiring processes could take 3 months. He shared he was hired in his second interview with a consulting firm with a turnaround within just a few weeks. Throughout the panel, there was an unsaid tone to be intentional and ask questions when applying to consulting firms. It is important to research the role and ensure you will be valued and respected.
The conversation flowed into how panelists feel fulfilled and motivated in their roles. Many shared it was exciting to see a project that had been in the works finally take shape. It was motivating for many to help find solutions to climate and environmental ventures. Those in governmental sectors shared that they are propelled by aiding in the practicality of plans and removing barriers to climate change projects.
The event concluded with a looser conversation as the chairs were cleared and snacks and drinks were set out. The 30 or so attendees had the opportunity to have one-on-one conversations with the panelists. Many took to asking further questions and chatting about experiences. Throughout the night, the room was filled with information as the panelist welcomed questions and were ready to share their insight and guidance. The panel successfully connected students to helpful, first-hand information about their careers in climate change. The accessibility of such information will help UW students plan for and flourish in their futures.
Read more with The Daily’s take on the event here
Thanks to the panelists for their key support for this event as well as current PCC participants who envisioned and created the event. A special shoutout to the P-GraSC public engagement subcommittee, led by grad student Madeleine Strait (Biology), to P-GraSC UCo subcommittee, led by Aina Hori (SMEA) and the evening’s MC, UCo undergraduate Lauren Henrie. It was wonderful to bring everyone together for further conversations on climate careers.
Written by Elise Herzfeld, PCC Undergraduate Assistant and student in Oceanography