The below content replicates the content of the physical exhibit at CSU Spur. It can be used for reference, language translation, and additional accessibility.
Panel 1: Water Quality Technician
Water quality technicians who work in the field assist with water quality monitoring, respond to emergency threats and environmental contamination, investigate complaints, and research and develop new technologies. Technicians in the lab test for chemicals and bacteria and assist with research and projects.
To become a water quality technician: Complete an associate’s degree in science, water quality management, or a related field and complete required certifications and licenses.
Quote: Holding a water sample and knowing what I am testing for and its impact on my community is absolutely amazing!
Image Credit: Representative photo and quote. Photo courtesy of CSU Spur.
Panel 2: Welder
Welders are craftspeople who shape, create, and fuse together all types of metals. They use tools that heat metal into liquid to build and repair items made of aluminum, brass, iron, steel, and other materials. Welders work on important structures and systems that collect, treat, deliver, protect, and measure water.
To become a welder: Complete courses at a welding trade school and those provided by the American Welding Society.
Quote: I love watching sparks fly when I’m creating and repairing the structures we need for our water.
Image Credit: Representative photo and quote. Photo courtesy of CSU Spur.
Panel 3: Government Affairs Liaison
In water, government affairs liaisons work with legislators, government officials, organizations, and lobbyists to develop policies, laws, and regulations about water use and water rights. They track and analyze legislation and work to support an organization’s policy needs.
To become a government affairs liaison: Complete a bachelor’s degree in communications, political science, public policy, environmental policy, or public administration.
Quote: My work is all about building personal relationships and connections within government to protect our water future.
Image Credit: Representative photo and quote. Photo courtesy of CSU Spur.
Panel 4: GIS Manager
Geographical Information Systems (GIS) managers are experts in analyzing and developing maps and computer applications to better understand water supply and water use. They create interactive maps and models that use a variety of information and sources to help governments and organizations make decisions related to water. A GIS manager is also responsible for overseeing a team and managing different projects.
To become a GIS manager: Take classes in GIS, computer science, data analysis, geography, and surveying to complete a bachelor’s degree.
Quote: It’s powerful to see a project grow from a computerized map to something that protects the health of our community.
Image Credit: Representative photo and quote. Photo courtesy of CSU Spur.
Panel 5: Engineer
Engineers design, build, and inspect complex things like structures, systems, and machines. They may specialize in construction, civil, electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, computer, industrial, or agricultural engineering or dam safety. Water resource engineers, for example, maintain structures like pipes and treatment facilities needed to deliver and clean water.
To become an engineer: Take classes in math, science, humanities, and other subjects, complete a bachelor’s degree in engineering, and get a professional engineer license.
Quote: Engineers are the backbone of water systems. We design and build ways for humans to interact positively with the natural world.
Image Credit: Representative photo and quote. Photo courtesy of CSU Spur.
