Today’s employer advice is from Susan Sullivan, Executive Director at New England Interstate Water Pollution Control Commission (NEIWPCC).
Q: Tell us about your organization.
NEIWPCC is a regional commission that helps the states of the Northeast preserve and advance water quality.
Established in 1947, we engage and convene water quality professionals and other interested parties from New England and New York to collaborate on water, wastewater, and environmental science challenges across shared regions, ecosystems, and areas of expertise.
MISSION | To advance clean water in the Northeast through collaboration with, and service to, our member states.
VISION | Clean and sustainable water throughout the Northeast.
VALUES | Leadership • Collaboration • Education • Service • Science.
Q: What advice would you give to people in midlife who want to transition to a green job?
Read a few books on the history of the environment and efforts to protect it, such as Silent Spring (Rachel Carson) or A User’s Guide for Planet Earth (Dork Shagian).
Jump into a local environmental organization and volunteer or go to a networking group such as Green Drinks.
Consider volunteering (intern?) with an organization focused on the environment (in an area of interest). This will provide insight on the types of positions available as well the experience required.
Take classes at universities that offer programs on the environment to learn more about the various fields as well as the latest information on what is happening.
Join/attend conferences on environmental awareness.
Become active in local communities on environmental concerns.
Q: What are the skills that you believe will be required most in the short-medium term in your industry?
Coordination and facilitation skills are always valuable, as are excellent computer and writing skills. The ability to focus a group to make a decision or share information, then document the results in a well written and articulate summary are great things you can bring to any organization.