 What is your current job and what does it entail?
I am with the South Atlantic Division of the US Army Corps of Engineers. Working out of Atlanta, GA, we are involved in the management and improvement of rivers, harbors and waterways for navigation, flood control, shore protection and other purposes. My responsibilities include program management, planning, analysis, technical consultation, quality assurance, coordination, oversight of field activities and problem solving. I routinely handle environmental issues relative to the impact of Corps' activities on endangered species such as sea turtles, fish and wildlife resources, coquina rock outcrops along the Atlantic Coast, wetlands and other natural ecosystems, water quality, cultural and natural resources, and hazardous and toxic waste.
What was the key factor in your career decision?
The physical and human environment as we know it is undergoing rapid and in some cases detrimental changes. I feel it is my duty as a citizen and public servant to protect and preserve our environmental resources. In keeping with this personal commitment, I have chosen to pursue a career in environmental engineering.
What do like most about your career?
I can influence changes in projects to protect, enhance or restore the environment.
What do you like least about your career?
The steps that I can take to preserve and protect our environment are very small in relationship to the magnitude of events happening around the world that could harm our environment and potentially threaten our quality of life.
What do you do to relax?
Between pursuing my career and rearing three very active daughters, I don't always find a lot of time to relax. I enjoy spending quiet time and vacationing with my children in a slow paced, relaxing environment.
I also enjoy reading.
Who are your heroes/heroines?
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who was an advocate of and major impetus behind social justice and change in this country and elsewhere. I am inspired by his leadership abilities, including his ability to motivate people to work toward a common goal. I admire and respect his accomplishments.
What advice would you give a high school student who expressed an interest in pursuing a career in your field?
As in most engineering fields, personal interest and a good solid background in math and science are prerequisites to success.
Are career opportunities in your field increasing or decreasing and why?
Career opportunities are fairly stable. There is a recognized and long-term need for environmental experts. Creative individuals with innovative ideas on cost-effective and efficient technologies for solving environmental problems will be in great demand.
What will you be doing 10 years from today?
My long-term goal is to be in a position where I can affect the development of policy, laws and regulations designed to protect, enhance and restore the environment.
Salary:$60,000 - $80,000
Email:glenda.k.ashford@hq02.usace.army.mil
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