Kimberly Mazza
“When I was in high school a geologist spoke in my earth science class and he inspired me to become a geologist. I hope in some small way I’m paying that forward and inspiring the next generation of scientists.”
These were the words of Jody Weikart, Wyoming’s Department of Environmental Quality Solid Waste Permitting & Corrective Action Program Manager after she presented to the students at Cheyenne, Wyoming’s East High School’s Advanced Placement Science Program.
“Where I’m at today with my career, is really a love story about rocks. I fell in love with geology after hearing a guest speaker in my high school class. My geology degree was the first step to where I am today and it all started because of that one inspiring moment,” she said.
At the invitation of East High’s environmental science teacher Kelli Pederson, Jody presented to a classroom of about 14 the first day and then about 20 the second day. She spoke on the life cycle of a landfill and the various opportunities at the Department of Environmental Quality for the first hour of each day.
“It was perfect timing for my class,” stated Ms. Pederson, “since our next topic was about solid waste.”
The discussion entailed siting the location for a new landfill; design, construction and excavating a landfill cell; installing the liner system and leachate collection system; operation and management of landfills; landfill caps for closure; and post closure monitoring of landfills.
During the last part of the lecture, Jody discussed different rocks and minerals she brought with her including herkimer diamonds, garnets, basalt, trona, petrified wood, and various fossils. She ended by noting the various types of scientists that work at the DEQ.
“We appreciate Jody and the DEQ coming to our class to not only lecture on landfills, but also encourage the students to pursue their education and career goals.”