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Madison Paul Lambda Theta - Michigan Technological University
Environmental Subject Matter Expert, Duke Energy
Which of the Delta Zeta shared values resonates with you the most? Community
How did you discover your passion for what you do, and what opportunities have helped shape your career?
I discovered the passion for what I do during my first experience in industry. I was working in a heavy manufacturing facility, and I just saw how much waste was being produced just trying to make a product that humans rely on a daily basis. Instead of being on the side where I was making sure that the business was making profit, I wanted to be on the side to where this product could be made with as little impact to the environment as possible. That is what sparked my move into the Environmental Engineering space.
The switch to Environmental Engineering was not the easiest being someone with a Chemical Engineering degree, however it took me selling myself as someone who understands both side for a company to take a chance.
Who has been an invaluable mentor for your professional career? What did you learn from them?
I have two that I need to mention. (1) My Unit Operations Professor in my undergraduate studies, Dr. Julie King, and (2) my Hydrology Professor in my Masters program, Dr. Chrissy Runyan. Dr. King saw my potential at times that I did not see it in myself. She saw that I was more than just my last test score. She saw how I could command a room and be a leader to my peers. Dr. Runyan helped me confirm that I had the ability to achieve the next step in my education, even though I was completed it in the unconventional way. She helped me confirm that environmental engineering is what I was made to do.
What words of wisdom or advice do you live by?
These are words my mom always told me throughout school:
”I don’t expect you to be THE best, but I expect you to try your best”
What is the most impactful book you have read, or podcast you have listened to, that relates to you professionally? What made it so impactful?
The podcast ”How to Save the Planet” has been the most impactful with me currently in my career. This podcast highlights the environmental injustice in the U.S. and how we are not doing enough to protect the underserved and vulnerable populations from the harm we cause. It just highlights what is usually forgotten when you use a piece of paper, type on your computer, or eat your favorite meal. Everything in life comes at a cost, and this podcasts tell you what that cost is.
How do you make sure you stay connected with your professional network?
Networking. I think being able to connect with another person and have a meaningful conversation with them is how you form the best connections. This can be done through in-person or virtual events and roundtables. I have met so many amazing women by going to a networking event and just introducing myself and talking about my dog!
A tip I have for networking is that it does not always have to be about your career. You are human. It is okay to talk about something besides work! Honestly, I remember more about a person when I get to know them as a person, not just an employee.
How have friendships helped you professionally? Is there a friend (or Delta Zeta sister) that has been behind you every step of the way on your career journey?
A friendship that has been behind me has been my friendship with my friend Logan, who was my first friend when I started college. We have helped each other so much throughout our undergraduate studies, and we continue to support each other throughout our current endeavors. I know I can always lean on him if I need someone to read over my resume or talk through a problem with.
What is your favorite thing to do outside of work?
Play tennis!!