More women look to environment for careers

By Kate Levinson

The environmental careers of 40-50 years ago were missing one very important thing: women.

Luckily green careers have come a long way, for women and in general. The environmental field of the old days lived in somewhat of a tunnel; jobs were in science and engineering, where women have been historically underrepresented.

But now, the view has broadened, and we’ve realized that many more careers are undoubtedly connected to the environment (i.e., public health). And the science and engineering sectors? Women are making their mark. Finally, as Amber discussed last week, more and more opportunities are popping up for women (and men!) to go headfirst into environmental careers, starting with their education.

Check out the feature in this month’s Women’s Health magazine for a sampling of some slightly out-of-the-box environmental careers women are rocking. From pollution to global environmental policy to marine wildlife, these women will you inspire you-and just might give you some career ideas of your own.

For more ideas, connections and inspiration, check out some of the women-focused environmental organizations out there: the Women’s Environment Council and Women’s Environmental Network for starters.

And one of the best ways to explore the many green career possibilities is to get out there and try them. Volunteer, intern, job shadow-it’ll definitely help you figure out what you want (and what you don’t) out of your career. There are millions of opportunities out there in straight-up environmental work, as well as the many, many related fields.

Check out:
Environmental Protection Agency careers, internships and scholarships Volunteer opportunities and internships at Idealist and VolunteerMatch Global volunteer opportunities (such as Anne’s trip to Belize) at Volunteer Abroad.

Photo by the Women's International Alliance