Name: Martin
Role Title: Hydro-geologist
Location: Sinclair Knight Merz, Tatura

Description of work undertaken: Martin has a variety of tasks as a hydro-geologist. One of his primary projects is to assist with the ground-water pumping program for Goulburn - Murray Water. Martin also conducts research on implementation of salinity controls and undertakes contaminated site assessments. Team and / or individual role / responsibilities: Martin's individual role involves the responsibility of project management of ground-water activities including plenty of field work and tasks such as soil analysis and site assessments.

One of Martin's primary projects is to assist with the ground-water pumping program for Goulburn - Murray Water

Future?
In future, Martin would like to develop more skills in hydro-geology and improve his networking skills.

Martin at the site of a groundwater pump

BACKGROUND: Grew up where? Martin grew up in Melbourne and attended Kingswood College in Box Hill. He then moved to Ballarat to study at University. After the completion of his course he was employed at DNRE in Tatura as a drainage officer before moving to his current position. Martin has always been interested in environmental issues and has chosen a career that he hopes that will benefit the environment.

Course(s) studied:
Tertiary /post secondary:
Martin has completed a Bachelor of Applied Science (Geology).

Secondary:
Martin based his VCE subjects on a science course, studying Chemistry, Physics and Geography. He believes his VCE subjects were beneficial for his Uni. course.

Work experience:
Martin worked at the Melbourne Zoo (bird section) and on various sheep and beef properties in Western Victoria.

OPPORTUNITIES:
Further study:
Martin believes he will only further his education if it would help his current career. He has no aspirations to at this stage.

Learning on job, new skills, etc.
Martin believes that he is always learning new skills on the job, in particular OH&S policies and principles, communication, extension and area networking.

Travel, etc.
Martin travels throughout northern Victoria and southern NSW for work.

ADVICE TO STUDENTS NOW:
students up to Year 10
Martin suggests that students should keep their options open, and undertake a wide range of work experiences. He also suggests that students should narrow down on their preferred career/course choices and to speak to as many people within the industry as possible.

VCE students
VCE students should follow their preferred path of career selection and choose subjects to suit. He suggests that students should speak to universities and employers about long-term options within selected industry.

Tertiary students
Martin believes that at this stage students should have a clear idea of career choice and that they should speak to future employers and gain as much work experience as possible.

OTHER:
Comments, thoughts, suggestions.
Martin believes that if students put in the effort now they will be rewarded at a later stage with career prospects.

What careers have other graduates from your course entered?
Mining geology, Economic geology and Technical research.