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REFLECTIONS ON GEOSCIENCE AGE DISTRIBUTIONS


of experience can be invaluable for the individual that makes the effort to extract our wisdom from our long years of work. I view this as a primary goal of AIPG in the coming few years. As Abbott’s analysis shows, we have begun to add many students and young professionals to our membership. This is happen- ing in part because the job market for geologists has greatly improved since the recent recession and a career in geology makes sense. It also reflects the drive of this new generation just now graduating from colleges and universities.


boomers! I don’t blame you. We have left you with plenty of problems to solve, for sure.


But what an opportunity! Geoscience professions are excit- ing, diverse, and challenging. The geoscience problems that society faces today are even more challenging than the prob- lems my generation inherited from the “greatest” generation. Demand for metals—both common (base metals) and more exotic (rare earths, lithium, PGMs, etc.) continues to increase. The ever-increasing niches filled by all varieties of industrial minerals increases demands for them. We use around 10 tons of aggregate per year per capita and demand is growing even with increasing recycling of asphalt and concrete. Hydrocarbons still power society and will continue to for decades in the future. Fresh water is ever scarcer due to population growth and changes in rainfall patterns. The tools we use in the geosci- ences have become increasingly complex and computer based. Those of us that hire new geologists rely heavily on university professors and teachers to prepare our new hires to use the tools of our profession as they begin their work life.


All of this portends exciting times for young geologists and many potential career paths to pursue. I would suggest that now is the time for young geologists to find mentors from my generation before we go riding off into the sunset. Our years


I know this generation well because my two sons are part of it. Both have or will graduate in the computer science and engineering field (not geology). Both are motivated not just by the size of their paychecks, but by the challenges they must face at work. Being challenged is an important motivation for them—they want to do something that matters and contributes to society. Call it idealistic if you want, but I think that is the attitude that this new generation brings to the table and which gives me great optimism for the future.


I recently attended a student night held at Arizona State University. It was well attended with more than 60 students, faculty members, and professionals. The students were eager and enthusiastic to hear talks by professionals about their careers. We also met with them to talk about their interests and to show them what we do on a day-to-day basis. It was very uplifting to see their focus and this re-enforced my posi- tive impression of this new generation of geologists.


AIPG will evolve as directed by this new generation of geologists. We have recently added a Young Professional position to the Executive Committee, a position currently held by Brandy Barnes. The Executive Committee of AIPG is well aware that the success of our organization depends on the active involvement of young geologists. We actively seek advice and suggestions and welcome input from students or young professionals on how our organization can best serve you. Indeed, many of us are ready for you to replace us in the Institute’s Section and National leadership positions. Please participate in our conferences and section meetings.


See you in Colorado Springs in September!


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Registration is open for the Annual Meeting in Colorado Springs!


Don’t miss out on the great networking, the learning opportunities, field trips and fun!


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Online registration is available at


www.aipg.org Jul.Aug.Sep 2018 • TPG 11


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