Environmental Engineer Fall 2012 - 22

...the predominant opinion was that the survey results were not unexpected...
A recurring theme in the practitioner panel sessions at the conference was the need for environmental engineers who can analyze complex problems rather than those who can perform straightforward calculations, for example. The global problems we face such as climate change and global water scarcity call for talented engineers who can bring multiple disciplines together to solve problems. Environmental engineers holding graduate degrees are better prepared to address these challenges. Not all students are inclined to pursue graduate education and there are fulfilling careers awaiting environmental engineers possessing BS degrees. However, in the opinion of the majority of the survey respondents, those with at least an MS degree have the opportunity to progress further and are better equipped to handle more challenging assignments.

Identify and Apply Current Environmental Engineering Practices Rank #1 in Responses
40 35 30 25 20 15 10 5 0 BS MS

Figure 3

Independently Develop Practice Solutions to Complex Problems Rank #1 in Responses
40 30 20 10 0

Correcting the Imbalance

AAEES stands ready to partner with AEESP and others to more accurately gauge employer needs and to pursue mechanisms to provide funding for MS degree programs. E2F would be able to provide additional funding if more firms and agencies participated. Collectively, we have the ability to address the imbalance between supply and demand for MS environmental engineering degree holders. As always, I welcome your thoughts. Please reach me at michaelselna@socal.rr.com.

Figure 4

Showcase your environmental communications project...

Enter the 2013 Environmental Communications Awards Competition
Criteria includes ❖ Innovative approach ❖ Future value ❖ Creativity and clarity ❖ Effectiveness in delivery, and ❖ Integrated Design Approach Winners automatically qualified to enter IWA’s Project Innovation Award competition for Marketing and CommunicationsNorth American Category. Entries are due March 1, 2013. Go to http://www.aaee.net for more information and an entry packet.

Environmental Engineer: News, Current Events & Careers

V 48, N 4 | Fall 2012

Environmental Engineer Fall 2012

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Environmental Engineer Fall 2012