Broad range of job opportunities possible

 

With the introduction of the new associates of applied science in environmental engineering technology (EVT) offered by Ohio University Southern, local college students now have access to a degree offering preparation for careers in science and beyond.

Dr. Miki Crawford, associate dean at Ohio University Southern, said the new degree “deals a lot with the environment,” and “is a program where students can find jobs.”

The new degree offers a flexible schedule with classes offered during the day and at night. Students wanting to pursue the two-year degree can enter the program either in the fall or spring semesters.

This fall, professor Michael Lafrienere will join the faculty of Ohio University Southern to teach several courses for the EVT degree. Lefrienere said he is excited about the new program and has a long-standing interest in environmental engineering. Lafrienere, who holds degrees in both electrical and environmental engineering, said, “the program is an exciting opportunity,” and believes offering the program is “wise of OU Southern.”

Lafrienere said the courses are “delivered in an accessible way” and instructors “don’t weed out (students)” who might have struggled with science in the past.

The degree will expose students to a variety of topics relating to science and mathematics. Students will learn about using instruments for measuring the elements in the environment and will gain information about keeping the environment clean, said Lafrienere. The EVT degree is an “opportunity to explore about the environment,” he said.

With the economy rebounding and a focus on protecting the environment increasing, Lafrienere said the EVT degree provides students career opportunities ranging from work in food manufacturing to work with environmental agencies. For students holding the degree, Lafrienere believes “the sky’s the limit” when it comes to job opportunities. Following graduation, students also have the opportunity to seek advanced degrees in EVT, said Lafrienere.

Lafrienere has noticed a demand for students who have EVT degrees and said that demand is prevalent in the Tri-State and beyond. By providing the EVT degree, Ohio University aims to meet the needs of local businesses and industries.

“The beauty of this program is that people can go right into industry work,” said Lafrienere.

Students interested in learning more about the Environmental Engineering Technology degree can visit the OUS website or contact Dr. Miki Crawford by calling 740-533-4604.