Archive for October, 2008

“Tracking the Dynamics of the Geoscience Workforce”- Betty Vetter Research Seminar

Thursday, October 23rd, 2008

AGI Geoscience Workforce analyst, Leila Gonzales presented a Betty Vetter Research Seminar on October 22, 2008. Gonzales’ presentation “Tracking the Dynamics of the Geoscience Workforce” focused on the earth science education requirements in grades K-12 nationwide, enrollment trends in the geosciences at U.S. colleges and universities, career and salary paths of those with geosciences degrees, diversity issues, and most importantly the increased demand in geosciences workforce versus the stagnant growth in the number of students majoring in the geosciences.

The seminar was held at the American Association for the Advancement of Science building located in Washington, D.C., The Betty Vetter Research Seminar series is sponsored by the Commission on Professionals in Science and Technology and takes place monthly.

Click here to view the talk: “Tracking the Dynamics of the Geoscience Workforce”- Betty Vetter Research Seminar October 22, 2008

Geoscience Currents #16: Geoscience Workforce Age Distribution

Thursday, October 23rd, 2008

Geoscience Currents #16 presents data from federal sources, professional societies, and industry that indicate an imbalance in the age distribution of geoscientists in the profession. The percentage of geoscientists between 31 and 35 years of age is less than half of geoscientists between 51-55 years old. Read more in Geoscience Currents #16: Geoscience Workforce Age Distribution.

The Geology of the Civil War

Friday, October 3rd, 2008

Historians have spent decades analyzing the military actions of the Civil War. Now
geologists are having their say.

Geologists are investigating how geological forces millions of years ago sculpted the terrain of Civil War battlefields — bringing a new perspective to the war’s events. Read November’s EARTH magazine and learn how igneous rock foiled the Confederates at Gettysburg, how powdery glacial sediments sealed Vicksburg’s fate and why limestone was the soldiers’ real enemy at Antietam.

A preview of this cover story, “Lay of the Land: Terrain’s Toll on the U.S. Civil War” is available at http://www.earthmagazine.org/.

Keep up to date with the latest happenings in earth, energy and environment news by checking out EARTH Magazine online at http://www.earthmagazine.org/. Published by the American Geological Institute, EARTH is your source for news and perspectives on research, technology and policy that affect you every day. Sign up for E-alerts, our short, weekly e-mails that alert subscribers to new content posted on the EARTH Web site, and subscribe to the magazine at http://www.earthmagazine.org/.

Larry D. Woodfork to Receive Prestigious Medal in Memory of Ian Campbell

Thursday, October 2nd, 2008

The American Geological Institute (AGI) is pleased to announce that Larry D. Woodfork has been named the 2008 recipient of the Medal in Memory of Ian Campbell. Woodfork is the 27th recipient of this award that is given annually in memory of Ian Campbell, a man of remarkable accomplishment and influence.

Larry D. Woodfork, the 2008 Campbell Medalist, has had a highly productive professional career spanning four decades and including leadership positions in government, industry and academia. He began working in the petroleum industry and in 1968 joined the West Virginia Geologic and Economic Survey as a staff geologist. In 1989, he was appointed State Geologist and Director. During his tenure at the Survey, he concurrently held appointments as Adjunct Professor at West Virginia University. He has authored or edited publications on energy resources and the application of geology in addressing societal needs.

Larry served West Virginia with distinction for 34 years. He provided the insight required to build and maintain the geological research and outreach service programs of the Survey in a cost-effective manner. During his tenure, Larry served on state, regional, and national committees, boards, and commissions. His outstanding and timely service contributions were recognized by the Governors of West Virginia, Kentucky and Indiana by each awarding him the highest honor bestowed on citizens.

Larry’s dedication and commitment to geoscience professional organizations are legendary. He has served as President of AGI, AIPG, and ASSG and as Chair of the AAPG HOD. He has provided leadership to the international community by serving as a voting delegate for the 31st and 32nd International Geological Congresses and as Chairman of the Board of Directors and Officers of the Corporation of International Year of Planet Earth. For his distinguished service, accomplishments, and leadership, he has received high honors and prestigious awards: AIPG Ben H. Parker Medal, AIPG Honorary Membership, AAPG Honorary Membership, AASG Honorary Membership, and GSA Senior Fellow.

Larry D. Woodfork’s many and significant contributions and distinguished service to the geoscience profession, and his exceptional achievements and visionary leadership unequivocally qualify him as an excellent selection for the 2008 Ian Campbell Medal.

Compiled by: Ernest A. Mancini, Citationist