6 Reasons why you should be an Environmental Engineer (from a millennial's perspective)

[@GoProLouisiana]

Nice to see an environmental engineer making KZbin videos! I graduated in EVEG in May 2019. I’ve been doing air quality consulting work since 2018. Planning to take the FE this year.

[@RandyLy]

Nice! I've always wondered what goes on in the field of air quality. Good luck on the exam

[@HieuNguyen-tk8lh]

Chào Randy, Mình cũng đang cân nhắc quay lại đúng con đường mình đã học là Environmental Engineering. Xem xong chia sẽ của em mình có thêm động lực. Cảm ơn em! Good luck with every you chose to do! P/s: I subscribed at the first minute of the video.

[@RandyLy]

Thank you!

[@alifyasls]

Hi, I am studying in Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB) Indonesia as a third year environmental engineering student. Eventhough the whole process in learning is not an easy peasy, but I love all the topics and knowing what I can do in the future really motivates me. Keep going what you like and what you believe. Hope the best for all environmental engineering student :)

[@RandyLy]

It's great to see aspiring future environmental engineers from all over the world

[@alifyasls]

@@RandyLy so great to find your channel too. Sorry, may I ask where did you study for your bachelor's degree?

[@RandyLy]

@@alifyasls I got my Bachelors in Chemistry from UC Riverside

[@mynameisalyosha]

Привет, Randy! Очень интересно и приятно было видеть видео на Ютубе от инженера-эколога, потому что я тоже учусь на этой специальности в Москве Hi, Randy! It was very interesting and nice to watch video from environmental engineer, because I'm studying the same program in Moscow.

[@RandyLy]

Hello from the USA! I'm glad environmental engineering is reaching every part of the world and I hope you are enjoying the program

[@PersonMcFaceFace]

Hey Randy, I am currently a second-year student in the environmental engineering program at my university. I like learning about the concepts and the scientific sides but the math and calculus is really killing me. For this reason I am considering switching into the environmental science major instead. I wanted to ask, how much math have you used for your job? Do you often need to do calculations and how much of the coursework have you used for your job (subjects like statics, dynamics, fluid mechanics, differential equations, etc.)?

[@RandyLy]

Hey Seth, With my current position, I don't use any math or calculations at all for my work. If you really enjoy the scientific concepts, I would suggest you do make the switch to Env Sci because that itself can lead to other opportunities. I work with Civil Engineers and although they had to learn subjects like fluid mechanics too, there is typically already a software that just calculates everything for them anyway. You'll hardly ever use any calculations or formulas by hand nowadays.

[@OROgoldenpair1]

The grass is always greener on the other side. Graduated Environmental Science major, here to tell you that engineers will have many more job opportunities than scientists, and will be better paid. Env engineers (and Geologists) can often apply for scientist titles but not the other way around. If you're looking into the waste or remediation fields, you're gonna want to do engineering or geology. A lot of Env Sci jobs (entry level that I have seen) are more ecology, wetland, water sampling, site assessment, and regulation compliance based, so of that is what you're into, cool. Its a very multidisciplinary degree, so you'll need to choose something to focus on ( bc at the end of the day, employers will want tangible and relevant skills). I do think Env Engineering is the multidisciplinary one in the engineering family tree so even there you may want to focus on a specific environmental topic or field and gain skills in that area. But again, they can share the same titles w Env Sci grads. All engineers pretty much do a large senior capstone project where they focus on a topic and that ish CARRIES WEIGHT. If you go Env Sci route, I highly suggest taking as much chemistry, geology, GIS, and water-related classes as you can, and get research or internships under your belt. Whatever you do, get good grades so you can easily get into graduate school if you choose to do so. Entry level salary is not high at all for Env Scientists, so some choose to just go to grad school after. I personally think that it will help.

[@electricshark11]

@@RandyLy okay that’s cool Cz I’m just only on my first year for engineering but didn’t know what career to take at bachelors level but environmental engineering is one of my choices

[@quantum3712]

Hi, i am interested in environmental engineering. Which country is better for that?

[@aidancorcoran5569]

Hi Randy, I’m a senior and high school and am interested in this field. How often do you work outside? I really want to work outside rather than sit in a cubicle for the rest of my life. I’ve always loved the outdoors and want to be with my job. Thanks man

[@RandyLy]

This job can vary depending on the company and where you work. Right now it's like 90% office because of the whole pandemic. If the Env Eng position is geared towards designing and requires AutoCAD skills, you'll probably be working in the office a lot. If it's towards compliance and requires you to do inspections, you'll probably be traveling like 50% of the time visiting sites. These "outdoor" site visits aren't like seeing forests; they're like going to factories and inspecting them.

[@nuwanhasaranga7252]

Hi brother. My respect to you cuz while I'm being motivated to be an Env.E. the only in detailed outline for the carrier I found in your channel ❤🙆🫡. I really glad to know how much of work time have to be covered in a day as an Env.E. ** specially in private sector** cuz everyone cannot get government opportunities. I really worry about it. Could I experience work- life balance and spend enough time with my family. ***Actually I worry about that than earning more nomey*** I'm beginner to the field.

[@delaneyreed7453]

hi randy! i’m an upcoming senior in high school and lately i’ve had to start thinking about college more. i’m very passionate about climate change and impacting the environment, but i’m more geared toward art and english. do you think i should continue to pursue a career in environmental engineering if i’m not naturally inclined to math and science? i’m more than willing to put in the work, but i don’t know if it’ll be too hard for someone that’s not fantastic in math. thank you!!

[@RandyLy]

Hi Laney, I've had quite a few friends in the same boat as you. For example, some said that they weren't book-smart, didn't want to pursue any STEM related field in the future, and majored in liberal arts during college but then ended up in nursing school after graduating with their liberal arts degree. Life surprises you! If I were in your shoes, I would at least try my first year in college the engineering route, just to test the waters. In the end, I know the classes are just daunting to look at now, but maybe you'll begin to develop a more studious mindset in college? I'm sure you'll develop more as you go throughout finishing high school. If in the end it doesn't work out, you can always switch towards a liberal arts degree. Just remember that no matter what college degree you come out with, the degree should not stop you from helping the environment.

[@emilyklaus8253]

Hey! Thank you for your videos they've helped me a lot considering I'm a senior in high school trying to figure out my major. I've always seen myself working outdoors and with people to help the environment, but I was wondering if there are a lot of travel opportunities?

[@RandyLy]

It depends on the company you work for. My job, yes there are. We manage three facilities all scattered, which is small compared to some others. Sometimes you may just have one big facility that could be like 5 miles wide and you just walk/drive around that area. Or you may have to drive to one facility like 20 miles away. Or it may be like from SoCal to NorCal (~500 miles) away. So it all depends. My work also requires training and sometimes they are in different states so I get to travel just to do training sometimes. But you could only sneak out and have fun after your 9-5 and there may not be much open after work

[@laurenwojo8722]

Thank you for making this video! I know I want to help the environment but I was not sure exactly what to go into or what direction to go into so this video helped a lot. I want to save the future from our actions and many do not believe that climate change is real or that we do a lot of harm to the environment. The earth is changing in so many ways and we have to adapt to it. I feel like my biggest issue now is just paying for college. Does it cost a lot on going to a college of engineering/ going into this field or is going in this direction going to bring a lot of debt to me? I am going to be a senior in high school so I am trying to figure things out now and where to go from here.

[@RandyLy]

Hi Lauren! Trust me, a lot of older people who already graduated from college are going through the same phase as you and are still looking for their direction. The fact that you're already thinking about this means you're one step ahead of them. Paying for tuition is the costly part, not so much the direction or field itself. Any college can charge any price which is why I recommend just going to a cheap, local, and convenient college and not some overly priced brand-named school if in the end you still end up with a degree that says the same thing. Most employers don't care what GPA you have or what school you graduated from. Only graduate school or further education looks at GPA. It will look nice to come from a prestigious school but overall; you do not want to be in hundreds of thousands in debt for your ego boost. You still have plenty of time to think about your direction. I would give this route a try if you are passionate now about it and if you think it's too difficult or things change during your first one or two years in college, then switch. Just find some older mentors and ask them whatever questions you have about the field/interns/experiences they have while you are at school when things go back to normal.

[@thantzinshwe1571]

I think I should jump to Environmental fields. In our country, the jobs paid well in non-governmental organizations. Environmental concepts will be more important in the future. Btw , I am going to graduate civil engineering bachelor degree.

[@RandyLy]

I'm glad I persuaded you with this video haha. But I also don't want to sugar coat this field and make it sound so great. If you personally enjoy it, go for it.

[@salvadorvaldezroy9483]

Hey Randy, I want to build technology to improve the environment. Will I learn that through environmental engineering? If not, where would I? Examples of tech for the environment are renewable energy, machines that filter out pollutants from the air, tech that cleans the oceans, etc.

[@RandyLy]

Hi Salvador, Yes! That was exactly what I wanted too and Environmental Engineering is exactly where I learned it. You'll be able to take classes that teach the general concept such as fuel cells fundamentals, desalination, carbon capture, etc.. but researching with a professor is where the real action is. For example, the professor who taught my fuel cell class was one of the lead fuel cell researchers in our area (UC Irvine, Jack Brouwer) and he had multiple projects relating to fuel cell. So getting into one of his projects would give you experience in your field of interest. There are many professors who have different projects/fields and you just need to reach out to them expressing interest.

[@salvadorvaldezroy9483]

Randy Ly Thank you so much! I’m even more excited to start my career now. I’m transferring to UCF for the Fall and with your advice, I feel more prepared to step into the field. I’ll definitely be aiming for research with professors to get hands on experience on all the tech related aspects of the career.

[@beast9212]

Damn! This is exactly what im looking for too. Trying to find solutions for the environment that uses high technologies. Also try to find new ways to create energy. Im studying at epfl in switzerland in environmental engineering

[@BebeDj5656]

Hi Randy! Thank you very much for your videos. I have been watching your videos and there are nice. I have a question, what's your opinion about programming and environmental engineering? I'm currently a fourth-year environmental engineering student. And I would love to know about your end of year project. Thanks!

[@RandyLy]

Hey Stephane, I actually didn't have to do a end of the year project. My program was different in that I could have done a Masters Thesis and take two years or just do the coursework and do 1.5 years. It made sense to just take the shorter route, save money, and find a job right away. I don't know much about programming and Env Eng unless you do like mapping and GIS work. If you're asking which route is better, it depends on what you're good at and what you enjoy. I cannot program for the life of me.

[@saraa7244]

bro could tou tell the best option for B.e mechanical student to do masters in emvironme.tal management? which country ? for jobs ? job oppurtuniies? my email id is [e-mail] plz share you suggestion and tips via email stay safe thank you

[@ivana5515]

Hi Randy, Thanks for that helpful video, Right now I am feeling very confused about this career. I just started it, I'm an one-year environmental engineering student. I would like to know how are you dealing with people who work at government?, has it been difficult for you?, Were you afraid at your first time you work there?,(If so, how did you go on?), also How hard it is to do what an environmental engineer does? Have you felt any pressure working there within this whole year and one month of experience?, And how did you make sure that this career was the one?

[@RandyLy]

Hi Ivana, If it's your first year, don't sweat it. You still have a couple more years to figure out whether or not Env Eng is right for you. I work on a military base so it's even more strict, but they are all really great people. I was scared of messing up at first because I thought I'd be fired right away, but they are very understanding. I had to learn everything without much guidance but I picked it up within around 3 months. It really depends on how ambitious you are at your job. They saw that I wanted to learn so they were happy. It was difficult because I was just pushed into something that I didn't know much about and I was an introvert, but now that I have this job; it pushes you out of your shell. I felt pressure, but it was really just me putting pressure on myself to learn quickly. No one punished me for not learning, and they were actually surprised I was able to understand everything within a few months instead of a year.

[@thalialantin4147]

hi randy! i just started watching your videos because i’m going through an internal conflict lol. currently im in the environmental engineering program at my university but im considering switching to the environmental science major. i suck at physics, and i’m not passionate about mechanics or dynamics or anything like that. i would rather be in the field collecting data and analyzing stuff. however, i know engineering is higher paying and there are more jobs. would it be better for me to get a degree in environmental engineering and then master in environmental science? or just switch entirely to environmental science?

[@RandyLy]

Hi Thalia, Man, I know a lot of people are going through the same thing you're going through. It sucks that we have to chase salary over what we truly enjoy, huh? If you know you aren't good or super passionate about it, I would switch to Env Sci for your Bachelors. The willpower for a higher pay scale can only push someone up to a limit. And also you don't want to risk failing a class, repeating it, and having to extend your tuition. A job as an environmental engineering doesn't really even need an exact major to be honest, unless they are super focused on designing (which at that point you might as well be a Civil Engineer). The only bad thing about a BS in Env Sci is that you may need to get a Masters to look competitive. Meanwhile a BS in Env Eng is considered good enough to just start working. Sorry if this isn't too helpful. This is literally the hardest questions that has no right answer. :(

[@anniestaciamiskel4856]

Hi Thalia! I'm also an environmental engineer after doing a civil engineering degree and specializing in the sub-field. Just wanted to throw in my two cents also. With an environmental engineering degree, you're often looked at in the job field as the decision maker above our scientist counterparts. I think it's unfortunate, but it almost seems like with an environmental engineering degree, you could work in a scientist's role and be seen, even if unjustifiably, as more qualified than your scientist friends. Meanwhile with an environmental scientist job, you can't easily move into having the same amount of responsibility or upward mobility as your engineering counterparts. Just my thoughts from being in the field these past two years and being part of professional organizations whose members include both scientists and engineers. If I were your sister, I'd encourage you to shoot for the engineering degree. You can always get a scientists' role and can have the broader job market for engineers to fall back on if the market is tight for scientists. Also, you'd be more likely to be a decision maker in how the science is actually applied in construction projects as an engineer.

[@leilasourati3035]

Hi I have master‘s degree in Environmental Engineering from Iran.In my country, I worked at water and wastewater (chemical and bacterial)Laboratory in University. now, I live in orange country (Ca).I don’t have a job. I love my major.Can you tell me what should I do? Thank you

[@RandyLy]

Hey Leila, Right now, times are just weird. If you've had previous work experience here but got laid off due to the pandemic, you're not alone. I've had some classmates/coworkers who had stable engineer jobs before all this and the pandemic just hit everyone. I don't recommend going back to school and getting more in debt because when things go back to normal, you'd just have tuition debt to pay when we just had to wait it out. I'm just lucky to still have my job because it's government related. I would just keep applying everywhere and wait for things to go back to normal. Your services are still needed!

[@leilasourati3035]

Thank you so much 🙏

[@jaycold7971]

what if i only graduate with a bachelors degree?

[@RandyLy]

It's still OK. I only switched on over for my Masters because I could not get a second bachelors and it was already too late for me to minor in Engineering unless I wanted to stay another year. If you could find something a secure position with just a bachelors, you're already well ahead.

[@sloanrussell8]

Hi! I’m going into environmental engineering this year as an incoming college freshman and I’m also very into architecture. I would like to create sustainable and efficient buildings and also keep a lot of job options open. Do you think a bachelors in environmental engineering would pair well with an architecture grad degree or should I go in another direction?

[@RandyLy]

If you're going for designing and buildings, I think the best option might be Civil Engineering. I don't know much about architect degrees, but I know you'll be using a lot of design programs as a Civil Engineer.

[@elissylol]

Hey Randy , i’m going to be a freshman college student pursuing environmental engineering. do u think that minoring in Management in this field would benefit my salary at all or just use up my time? I love your videos btw !!!

[@RandyLy]

Hi Elissy, Thanks for watching my videos! I didn't minor in anything myself during undergrad so I can't say how helpful it will be in the future. Minoring in management will probably expose you to the business aspect of things and get you experience in that field, but I don't think it will increase your salary if you're going into an env engineer position. It will probably just use up your time during college.

[@RaviKumar-sw8dh]

Can I take computer science as a minor subject with environmental engineering in BTech

[@RandyLy]

You can take whatever you can handle

[@RaviKumar-sw8dh]

thanks for your reply. I am from India here salary is very less than in the USA for an environmental engineer

[@audreyclara7532]

Hey Randy, thank you for your video. Currently, I am interested in waste management. Work for a company that handles medical waste or something. Is majoring in environmental engineering is the right step?

[@RandyLy]

Hi Audrey, If you are interested in waste management, then yes Env Engineering is a step in the right direction. I do not know specifically about medical waste, though. That might be in the realm of chemical/industrial hygienists or toxicologists. Again, I don't know much about that field, so you'll have to do more research on that.

[@audreyclara7532]

@@RandyLy thank you for your answer and explanation 🙌

[@mwwhatever]

Sounds cool, I just don't know if I'd be smart enough. Is it a lot of math or chemistry?

[@RandyLy]

There is a lot of math and just one semester of general chemistry

[@GraceofGod-l1j]

Which part of California you were looking for a job at??

[@RandyLy]

Im near Los Angeles and Orange County

[@ibrahimhaddad4247]

You are fantastic bro But I just want to ask you if you can speak slowly because it’s a little bet hard to understand you for someone the English isn’t his first language and if you can write the speech that you say it’s will be fantastic and I want to say you reach the environmental engineering from all over the world not just in US Thank you very much

[@RandyLy]

Thanks for watching! I've noticed I speak fast and have been trying to speak slower and enunciate more in future videos.

[@aurumon]

hello! id like to ask, how often do env engineering graduates work/have a career in research? it seems that env engineers often go to consulting or maybe i am wrong. it seems very political too and doesn’t have room for creativity (like actually building things). it seems full of paperwork and routinely checking up on things rather than the itinerary sort of timeline with that of finishing projects. i read one of your replies that there isnt much funding for environmental research other than in universities that receive research grants. would you know if it is the same case for other engineering like chemical or electrical, or do these receive more funding and not just for the academe? thank you :)

[@RandyLy]

Good question. Most of the env engineers I know and what I currently do is a lot of repetitive paperwork. There isn't much room for creativity other than proposing an idea on how we can possibly reduce waste here or lower the energy used for this one building over there or placing trash bins in this area rather than this area. We're not doing any research lab work that is groundbreaking. But again, that's just from my perspective and I can't answer for all env engineers. I was only able to do research during undergrad/grad school, where we were funded by the USDA or some large water treatment plant. I don't know about other engineer fields and their ability to do environmental research. Every time I see an oil company come up with a new synthetic oil, I would like to think some chemical engineer or scientist help formulate that. If you really want R&D, it'd probably be best to get like a PhD in Chemistry or Biology and work in those large pharmaceutical companies. BUT that is also repetitive work (I worked in that too). I feel like I rambled a lot and just depressed you because I answered that there is no escape in repetitive, boring work haha

[@aurumon]

@@RandyLy no worries, it had to be heard. i appreciate your reply very much! it does sound depressing, i hope you're okay. i was torn between env engineering and electrical engineering and the past days learned a lot more about what electrical engineers can do so i am now leaning more towards that. thank you again. your reply is indispensable guidance :) wishing you well !

[@jijilpm1998]

@@RandyLy hi sir .. Can i be a ecologist with environmental engineering... Or environmental science is better for those who have more interest in the filed of biology

[@RandyLy]

@@jijilpm1998 It will depend on what are the responsibilities of that ecologist position. Employers are pretty flexible so long as you have the skills necessary to do the job, it doesn't matter the degree you graduated with as long as it is in a relatable field.

[@yashgupta4285]

I have done btecg in civil engineering from India and now I am planning for masters from aborad. What should I choose- construction management courses, environmental engineering or renewable energy resources plan?

[@RandyLy]

It all depends on what you enjoy. I will never force anyone to choose their major because if they don't like it or can't find a job; I do not want them to blame me

[@dianesalvador5893]

Hi. I'm a civil engineering student and I'm planning to take environmental engineering in the future. Is there any advice on how to pursue it?

[@RandyLy]

Hi Diane, Civil and Env Engineering are a really good pair to major in because you'll be really flexible if ever you want to switch. General advice would be to graduate as fast as you can because you don't want to prolong your suffering 😅 Take AutoCAD, GIS, Solidworks, MATLAB, and other relatable engineering courses if you plan on staying in engineering/construction. Take some chemistry/science classes if you plan on working in like a wastewater treatment plant because they'll probably ask if you have experience with laboratory equipment or have done sampling.

[@emmaarteaga2995]

Thanks randy

[@RandyLy]

Thanks for watching

[@jyothiratnala2052]

Do environmental management degrees get to work similarly as environment engineers? What is the difference?

[@RandyLy]

My university didn't have an environmental management major, so I don't know. I would assume it's mixed between environment and business or project management. You can literally mix and match any degree and make a new degree.

[@sudarsan7019]

Hey Randy, Hope you are doing good! I am interested to invent devices and use technology to support farmers and wildlife. Is Environmental Engineering the right choice? Please give me some advice bro... Thanks a lot!👍

[@RandyLy]

My current job is not in the research and development field. Mine is more towards compliance and rules/regulations. I see what you're aiming for and research projects at universities have that, but I have not seen a career field other than being in academia having the ability to do that. It's because technology and R&D requires a lot of money and companies don't have that, because they're not willing to spend money on something that may not work. Meanwhile schools have grants that they can use to play with that.

[@sudarsan7019]

@@RandyLy Thanks a lot bro! Would you recommend me a degree in Environmental Engineering? As I'm more Interested in finding stable solutions. Also, as I said, I would love to Use Technology to help Nature. Apart from the need of Money and Investors, Is there any other reason? Thanks again for replying brother 👍

[@sudarsan7019]

Or should I have a degree in Mechanical engineering or something?

[@RandyLy]

@@sudarsan7019 I don't want to tell you what degree is best and have you regret it and hate me if you don't like it. I think you would have more opportunities if you did pursue Env Eng, based on what you're interested in. You for sure have to try to get into a research project if that's what you're aiming for. Another reason is that not many companies are interested in it because there is no incentive to do it, as they won't make a profit. Companies like Amazon and Microsoft want to go carbon neutral by a set date, but we don't know how they'll do it, what benefit they'll have from doing it, or even if they will do it.

[@sudarsan7019]

@@RandyLy Thanks a lot brother, for your words! You are the only KZbinr who replies to everyone's queries. Thanks a lot again. Keep rocking! I love your videos by the way 😀👍

[@edelinemae3400]

Hi Randy. I'm in senior high and I still can't choose between Agricultural Engineering and Environmental Engineering. What's the difference between them? Which of them would have bigger impact in the world?

[@RandyLy]

I didn't have agricultural engineering as a major when I went to college or graduate school so I cannot say. From what I can look up though, it seems that agricultural engineering is like a combination between chemical and environmental engineering, meaning you'd deal with the sciences more. With Env engineering since it was a subsection of Civil Engineering, you could be dealing with architects, designs, and other civil engineering aspects more so agricultural engineers.

[@edelinemae3400]

@@RandyLy woah, thank you so much!!

[@---tn1iu]

What would you suggest for a third-year Geography/Environmental Science major that would be better at Engineering? At this rate, I’m better off graduating with honors in my field but I happened to realize I want to be an engineer later rather than earlier in my college career. Is it enough to get a MS in Engineering with a non-Engineering BA/BS for people to take you seriously?

[@RandyLy]

You'd be in the same situation as me. I graduated with a BS in Chemistry and MS in Env Eng. It was not a problem with getting hired because they'll see you as more well rounded. I would suggest finishing off your undergrad major with honors and applying for grad school if you're set on going all in. Beware, some grad schools may wonder why you switched and it might be difficult to get in from a completely unrelated field. The hardest part for me was adjusting to engineering courses during grad school because I was never exposed to things like Matlab and other engineering apps.

[@samp.8975]

hi ! i'm french environmental engineer . i would like to keep getting an international experience. what do you think of opportunities in this field now and when the pandemic situation be fix ?

[@RandyLy]

It depends on your location and I have no idea how the pandemic will affect all this in the short term.

[@alswlapdl5351]

Hi, i'm currently in 3rd year in environmental engineering. I have gotten over 4.0 gpa so far, but I have no experience in internship or research. I feel like I lost many internship opportunities due to pandemic because I'm an international student and I'm just staying in my home country taking online classes. And I'm feeling high stress as I go toward my final year. When applying jobs or graduate school, do you think not having any internship experience would highly matter? I still don't know what I should do after I graduate, and I'm just doing my best on studying. Do you think I should give more effort on searching internship than studying?

[@RandyLy]

This is the hardest experience I've had to consider. I didn't have to go through most of what current students are going through with the pandemic and having to take online classes, so it is hard to say what is the right thing to do. I hope that employers understand that students cannot get internships through no fault of their own and that they are willing to learn; it is just the situation that stops them. I say do both. Graduating with a degree is your main goal, but put in the effort to finding any experience, internship, club opportunity, or anything. If going from a 4.0 to a 3.9 GPA happens because you found an engineering internship, you'll find the experience is far better than working sleepless nights for that one assignment.

[@alswlapdl5351]

Thanks for your advice!!!

[@yunusamin2106]

@@alswlapdl5351 hello, can i know you study in which university? Do you have a lot of electrical courses in your major cuz i can't survive with all the electric concepts 😂

[@beast9212]

Hi! Im studying environmental engineering at epfl in switzerland and was wondering if it is a good major if i want to work in trying to find solutions/technologies to create energy in an ecological way. I also may want to create businesses with recycling. Can it be lucrative?

[@RandyLy]

Hi, I don't know much about env engineering in other countries, but EPFL looks pretty prestigious. My role here in the US is towards compliance, but I know there are a few roles such as R&D in sustainable technology. It's just there are VERY little positions like that here in the US. I would say, get the most out of research while you are at that university and see if you enjoy that route. Switzerland might have more opportunities in R&D than the US. Regarding recycling, right now with China and their "National Sword" policy, recycling isn't a good business for foreign countries exporting their recyclables. It can be lucrative if any country has the technology or willingness to accept other countries' recyclable materials.

[@beast9212]

@@RandyLy Yes thats the answer i expected when it comes to recycling. I just thought that in the future it might be a key opportunity in the future

[@RandyLy]

If it's not happening right now, now IS the opportunity for the future. I'm glad you're interested in it

[@SimplySevv]

Randy! I have a big question, currently I am going to college in the fall to get a degree in Environmental Science. I always wanted to do Environmental Engineering but the school I decided to go to doesn’t have that major. Do you think with a Environmental Science degree I’ll be able to get a job as a Environmental Engineer? Thanks!

[@RandyLy]

Good question! It depends on the position. For my environmental compliance job, most likely it won't matter which degree. But if you are applying at a large engineering firm working with Civil engineers/architects and designing projects, they will probably want you to have an engineering degree or at least have the engineering certificate. If you are applying for like a waste water treatment plant doing some water sampling, they may accept both because you aren't heavily focused on designing structures and stuff. Put simply, you can think that the "engineer" title will be a stereotypical engineer and a "scientist" will be more lab based. Consultants and compliance usually accept both

[@Hephzibah624]

If you work for the government sector, does the government grant student loan forgiveness to you?

[@RandyLy]

Even though I work for the government, they don't give me government benefits. I am a contractor employee, not a civilian employee, and we don't get the same perks. Civilian employees may have that student loan forgiveness but I don't know for sure. I heard they have VERY strict guidelines with that, so even if you are a government employee, make sure that you meet all of their qualifications.

[@Hephzibah624]

@@RandyLy Oh, wow. Thank you! Yeah, I really don't have much knowledge on that but I have heard it is quite strict. Just curious. I'm currently enrolled in a community college and considering changing my major (again) to environmental engineering. My major of choice was completely different- international relations; but I don't know what I was thinking because the job outlook is very poor... 🤦‍♀️ I definitely don't want to get into a career, however, that requires hours in front of a computer screen. I need something more hands-on, although I am an introvert.

[@RandyLy]

Unfortunately, sometimes, this job may require being in front of a computer screen all day. It all depends on your specific position though because mine could vary wildly. One day I'm in front of the computer all day, the next day I'm out in the field, and the next I could be training employees. Off topic. I still consider myself an introvert; I just don't care or am not scared to be in front of people. I prefer to be alone and only speak when I need to. Yeah, the job makes me have to break out a little, but people still know when not to talk to me LOL

[@electricshark11]

Lol you steal my name and now you steal my career haha You’re funny Randy

[@RandyLy]

The more the merrier😀