GEO ‘Samples’ the Consulting Industry

Professional Geologist John Lopez (Geology, 2009) and Madeline (Sesma) Price (Geology, 2024), from Hart & Hickman consultants, demonstrated how groundwater is collected for analysis using the monitoring well located along Toby Creek by Hauser Alumni Pavilion. Approximately 15 students were in attendance representing a diverse set of majors including Geology, Earth & Environmental Science, and Engineering, among others. Together, John and Madeline took students through the entire process from setting up the peristaltic pump, measuring groundwater properties, sampling for volatile organic compounds, and packaging the samples along with completing the Chain of Custody form. Additionally, John shared information regarding the EPA’s Brownfields program, which “provides grants and technical assistance to communities, states, tribes and others to assess, safely clean up and sustainably reuse contaminated properties.” Hart and Hickman has successfully transformed numerous brownfields sites in the Charlotte area and around the state. We look forward to Hart & Hickman’s next visit!