We sat down with Michele Taylor, Environmental Scientist at G2, to learn how a love for the outdoors at 17 shaped a career that keeps her out of the cubicle and in the field. From navigating site visits in sweltering heat to finding the perfect balance between fieldwork and desk work, Michele shares how she found her path in environmental consulting and what continues to inspire her today.

What inspired you to pursue a career in Environmental Sciences?

I loved being outdoors, and I had a passion for the environment. At 17 years old, I had decided that I never wanted to work behind a desk every day.

I majored in Environmental Science with no idea what type of career that would entail. The college program I was in placed a strong emphasis on chemistry and mathematics. It was a challenging four years, but I loved it. Unfortunately, I had my shiny, brand-new degree and had no idea what to do with it. Most of my classmates went on to law school, medical school, or graduate school. My good friend and former roommate got a job as an environmental consultant after graduation and said, “Hey, I think you’d like this. You should apply here.” I did, and the rest is history.

What do you enjoy most about working in Environmental Consulting?

I got my wish; I do not work behind a desk every day. Some days that’s great, and other days I want to go back and smother my 17-year-old self. I like the variety of my job; it keeps me interested and engaged. I generally love doing site visits and fieldwork. It’s only when it feels like 10 degrees or 100 degrees outside that I begin to question my life choices. Those are the days that I am glad to be at my desk writing reports. I feel that at G2, I have a good balance between field work and desk work.

What advice would you give to someone starting their career in environmental consulting? 

I think the real advice I’d suggest is to collaborate with your colleagues and share your knowledge. Whether it is regarding new technology, new laws, new websites for information, new techniques, or something you learned in school – share it. Everything an environmental consultant does is impacted by laws and regulations, which are constantly changing. Communication and collaboration between colleagues are important. We are constantly keeping up and sharing with one another new state and EPA regulations so that we can provide our clients with the correct information to make informed decisions. We are also always looking to improve our services and efficiency. So, share your knowledge, don’t gatekeep your expertise.