ABSTRACT

Education can only go so far in preparing environmental engineers for on-the-job experience. A person who wishes to become an environmental engineer is greatly assisted by two personal factors. First, well-rounded, broad development of experience in many areas is required and results in the production of the classic generalist. Although environmental engineers cannot possibly gain in-depth knowledge about all areas, they must have the desire and the aptitude to do so. They must be interested in-and well informed about-many widely differing fields of study. The necessity for this in environmental applications is readily apparent, as the range of problems encountered is so immense that a narrow education will not suffice. Environmental engineers must handle situations that call upon skills ranging from the ability to understand the psychological and sociological problems of people to the ability to perform calculations required for mechanics and structures. The would-be practicing environmental engineer can come from just about any background, and a narrow educational focus does not preclude students and others from broadening their expertise later; however, quite often those who are very specialized lack appreciation for other disciplines, as well as the adaptability necessary for environmental engineering.