Dirt, Diamonds, and Dumpsters: Careers You Didn’t See Coming

Thursday, October 23, 2025

11:15 AM - 12:15 PM CT

Location: MCCNO 243-245

Moderator(s)

Amy Isenberg

Marketing Manager
Geo-Logic Associates
Rancho Cucamonga, Rancho Cucamonga, California, United States
Grace Herrmann, PE

Project Engineer
Geo-Logic Associates
Albuquerque, New Mexico, United States

Speaker(s)

Meghan J. McDonald, P.E.

Engineering Manager
New Mexico Abandoned Mine Land Program
Santa Fe, New Mexico, United States
Kate Logan

Regional Engineer
Waste Connections
Trika Graham

Manager of Water Quality Programs
Freeport - McMoRan
Anna McMullen (she/her/hers)

Manager EMS and Audit Programs
Freeport - McMoRan
Gilbert, Arizona, United States

Modern landfills and mining operations rely on cutting-edge engineering, environmental science, and technology to ensure safety, efficiency, and sustainability. This session explores the technical side of these industries, highlighting how women drive innovation in waste containment, methane capture, geotechnical engineering, and site remediation. Learn about careers in landfill design, mining operations, environmental monitoring, and regulatory compliance. Discover how advancements in GIS mapping, leachate management, and waste-to-energy systems are shaping the future of sustainability. Through real-world experiences from industry professionals, this session will provide insight into the challenges and opportunities in these fields and how women are making a lasting impact. Whether you’re interested in engineering or environmental science, this session will help you understand the technical skills and career paths that keep these essential industries running.

Learning Objectives:

Identify career opportunities in landfills and mining.
Recognize the contributions of women in these fields.
Describe the educational pathways and certifications available to these industries.