We talked of many things, but he emphasized this— if a person would like to spend their life making movies, you need first to educate yourself.

You must master many arts— of writing scripts, choosing locations, dressing sets, costuming the players, lighting scenes, manipulating the camera, directing actors, editing film, working on sound, advertising the finished product, and screening it to an audience.

Most people assume that the director is most often considered the author of a film. But everything begins with story. And when actors are on board, everything moves to yet another level of interpretation. Beyond acting, editing changes the whole game yet again.

Film schools teach you the art, craft, and technology of film, television video, animation and sound production. You learn to make movies. To take an idea and make it a visual and audible reality for strangers worldwide.

A good film school gives you intensive hands-on production experience. You learn film history. Your talent and skills are given a chance to evolve.

For instance, here goals and objectives of one famous film school— and these are typical of good film schools everywhere—

1. To develop individual talent and skills within a collaborative working environment.
2. To provide the highest standard of education and training with professionally active faculty and a broad spectrum of visiting professionals.
3. To provide an integrated liberal arts education program.
4. To encourage artistic, social and cultural diversity.
5. To develop an international perspective through student exchange and study-abroad programs.
6. To support a strong internship program offering a wide range of options for pre-professional experience.
7. To provide venues for the presentation and promotion of student work and to advise and assist students regarding national and international festivals and opportunities.
8. To provide access to the vibrant and creative community.

Sounds incredibly exciting, right. But how much does it cost? What about money?

How in the world can you pay for a film school education? There are ways and ways and more ways.

While the primary responsibility for financing one’s education falls upon the individual and family resources, good schools offer scholarships and many aid programs.

Scholarships are usually awarded on a competitive basis. Academic merit are weighed with financial need.

But, now, back to the art of film-making itself. Is it worth your investment of so much time and money and hope and work? That depends on your personal level of desire, to communicate with the whole wide world.

Just for context, and FYI, I include the film credits of the artist I quoted, Mr Konchalovski. The credits are a timeline, and run from the present, backward into time.

You can see for yourself, how richly the creative life of a film-maker shapes up…

KONCHALOVSKI as a WRITER
Nutcracker: The Untold Story (2009) (screenplay)
… aka Nutcracker: The Curse of the Rat King (Europe: English title: festival title)
I demoni di San Pietroburgo (2008) (from an original idea by)
… aka The Demons of St. Petersburg (International: English title)
Moscow Chill (2007) (writer)
… aka Moroz po kozhe (Russia)
Glyanets (2007) (writer)
… aka Gloss (International: English title: literal title) (USA)
… aka ?????? (Russia)
Chacun son cinéma ou Ce petit coup au coeur quand la lumière s’éteint et que le film commence (2007) (writer) (segment “Dans le Noir”)
… aka Chacun son cinéma (France: short title)
… aka To Each His Own Cinema (International: English title)
Dom durakov (2002) (writer)
… aka House of Fools (International: English title)
… aka La maison de fous (France)
The Odyssey (1997) (TV) (teleplay)
… aka Die Abenteuer des Odysseus (Germany)
… aka Homer’s Odyssey
… aka L’odissea (Italy)
… aka Odysseia (Greece)
Kurochka Ryaba (1994) (writer)
… aka ??????? ???? (Russia)
… aka Assia and the Hen with the Golden Eggs
… aka Riaba ma poule (France)
… aka Ryaba My Chicken
The Inner Circle (1991) (written by)
… aka ??????? ???? (Soviet Union: Russian title)
… aka Blizhniy krug (Soviet Union: Russian title)
… aka Il proiezionista (Italy)
Shy People (1987) (screenplay) (story)
Duet for One (1986) (writer)
Maria’s Lovers (1984) (screenplay)
Sibiriada (1979) (writer)
… aka ????????? (Soviet Union: Russian title)
… aka Siberiade (USA)
Krov i pot (1978) (writer) (as Andrei Mikhalkov-Konchalovsky)
Transsibirskiy ekspress (1977) (screenplay) (as A. Mikhalkov-Konchalovsky)
… aka ?????????????? ???????? (Soviet Union: Russian title)
… aka Trans-Siberian Express
Raba lyubvi (1976) (writer) (as Andrei Mikhalkov-Kontchalovsky)
… aka ???? ????? (Soviet Union: Russian title)
… aka A Slave of Love (International: English title)
… aka Bondage of Love (USA: literal title)
Lyutyy (1974) (writer)
… aka The Ferocious One (International: English title: literal title)
… aka The Fierce One (International: English title)
… aka The Grey Fierce One
Nechayannye radosti (1972) (writer)
… aka ????????? ??????? (Soviet Union: Russian title)
Sedmaya pulya (1972) (writer) (as Andrei Mikhalkov-Konchalovsky)
Zhdem tebya, paren… (1972) (writer) (as Andrej Michalkow-Kontschalowski)
Dyadya Vanya (1970) (screenplay)
… aka Uncle Vanya
Konets atamana (1970) (writer)
… aka ????? ??????? (Soviet Union: Russian title)
Dvoryanskoe gnezdo (1969) (writer)
… aka ?????????? ?????? (Soviet Union: Russian title)
… aka A Nest of Gentlefolk
… aka A Nest of Gentry (USA)
… aka Nobiliary Nest
Pesn o Manshuk (1969) (writer)
… aka Song About Manshuk
Tashkent – gorod khlebny (1968) (writer) (as Andrei Mikhalkov-Konchalovsky)
Andrey Rublyov (1966) (writer) (as Andron Mikhalkov-Konchalovsky)
… aka ?????? ?????? (Soviet Union: Russian title)
… aka Andrei Rublev (USA)
Pervyy uchitel (1966) (screenplay)
… aka ?????? ??????? (Soviet Union: Russian title)
… aka The First Teacher
Ivanovo detstvo (1962) (uncredited)
… aka ??????? ??????? (Soviet Union: Russian title)
… aka Childhood of Ivan
… aka Ivan’s Childhood
… aka My Name Is Ivan (USA)
… aka The Youngest Spy
Katok i skripka (1961) (writer)
… aka ????? ? ??????? (Soviet Union: Russian title)
… aka The Skating Rink and the Violin
… aka The Steamroller and the Violin
… aka Violin and Roller

KONCHALOVSKI as a DIRECTOR
Nutcracker: The Untold Story (2009)
… aka Nutcracker: The Curse of the Rat King (Europe: English title: festival title)
Glyanets (2007)
… aka Gloss (International: English title: literal title) (USA)
… aka ?????? (Russia)
Chacun son cinéma ou Ce petit coup au coeur quand la lumière s’éteint et que le film commence (2007) (segment “Dans le Noir”)
… aka Chacun son cinéma (France: short title)
… aka To Each His Own Cinema (International: English title)
The Lion in Winter (2003) (TV)
Dom durakov (2002)
… aka House of Fools (International: English title)
… aka La maison de fous (France)
The Odyssey (1997) (TV)
… aka Die Abenteuer des Odysseus (Germany)
… aka Homer’s Odyssey
… aka L’odissea (Italy)
… aka Odysseia (Greece)
Lumière et compagnie (1995)
… aka Lumière and Company (International: English title)
… aka Lumiere y compañía (Spain)
Kurochka Ryaba (1994)
… aka ??????? ???? (Russia)
… aka Assia and the Hen with the Golden Eggs
… aka Riaba ma poule (France)
… aka Ryaba My Chicken
The Inner Circle (1991)
… aka ??????? ???? (Soviet Union: Russian title)
… aka Blizhniy krug (Soviet Union: Russian title)
… aka Il proiezionista (Italy)
Tango & Cash (1989)
Homer and Eddie (1989)
Shy People (1987)
Duet for One (1986)
Runaway Train (1985)
Maria’s Lovers (1984)
Split Cherry Tree (1982)
Sibiriada (1979)
… aka ????????? (Soviet Union: Russian title)
… aka Siberiade (USA)
Romans o vlyublyonnykh (1974) (as Andrei Mikhalkov-Konchalovsky)
… aka ?????? ? ?????????? (Soviet Union: Russian title)
… aka A Lover’s Romance
… aka Romance for Lovers
Dyadya Vanya (1970)
… aka Uncle Vanya
Dvoryanskoe gnezdo (1969)
… aka ?????????? ?????? (Soviet Union: Russian title)
… aka A Nest of Gentlefolk
… aka A Nest of Gentry (USA)
… aka Nobiliary Nest
Pervyy uchitel (1966) (as Andrei Mikhalkov-Konchalovsky)
… aka ?????? ??????? (Soviet Union: Russian title)
… aka The First Teacher
Istoriya Asi Klyachinoy, kotoraya lyubila, da ne vyshla zamuzh (1966)
… aka ??????? ??? ????????, ??????? ??????, ?? ?? ????? ????? (Soviet Union: Russian title)
… aka Asino schaste (Soviet Union: Russian title: censored version)
… aka Asya’s Happiness
… aka Istoriya Asi Klyachinoy (Soviet Union: Russian title: short title)
… aka The Story of Asya Klyachina (International: English title)
Malchik i golub (1961)
… aka The Boy and the Pigeon

KONCHALOVSKI as a PRODUCER
The Last Station (2009) (executive producer)
… aka Ein Russischer Sommer (Germany)
Nutcracker: The Untold Story (2009) (producer)
… aka Nutcracker: The Curse of the Rat King (Europe: English title: festival title)
Moscow Chill (2007) (producer)
… aka Moroz po kozhe (Russia)
Glyanets (2007) (producer)
… aka Gloss (International: English title: literal title) (USA)
… aka ?????? (Russia)
Dom durakov (2002) (producer)
… aka House of Fools (International: English title)
… aka La maison de fous (France)
Kurochka Ryaba (1994) (producer)
… aka ??????? ???? (Russia)
… aka Assia and the Hen with the Golden Eggs
… aka Riaba ma poule (France)
… aka Ryaba My Chicken

KONCHALOVSKI as an ACTOR
Glyanets (2007) (uncredited) …. Provintsialnyy intelligent/Izbityy Vitkom
… aka Gloss (International: English title: literal title) (USA)
… aka ?????? (Russia)
Mne dvadtsat let (1964) …. Yuri – Guest at Anya’s Party
… aka ??? ???????? ??? (Soviet Union: Russian title)
… aka I am Twenty
… aka Zastava Ilijcha
Ivanovo detstvo (1962) (as A. Konchalovsky) …. Soldier
… aka ??????? ??????? (Soviet Union: Russian title)
… aka Childhood of Ivan
… aka Ivan’s Childhood
… aka My Name Is Ivan (USA)
… aka The Youngest Spy
Soundtrack:
Maria’s Lovers (1984) (music: “Maria’s Eyes”)
Second Unit Director or Assistant Director:
I girasoli (1970) (second unit director)
… aka Les fleurs du soleil (France)
… aka Sunflower (USA)
Uuden aallon jäljillä (2009) (TV) …. Himself
Tracking ‘The Lion in Winter’ (2004) (TV) …. Himself
Kurosawa: The Last Emperor (1999) (TV) …. Himself
‘Psycho’ Path (1999) (V) …. Himself
7th Annual Russian Academy of Cinema Arts Awards (1993) (TV) …. Himself, guest
Schneeweißrosenrot (1991) …. Himself
… aka SnowwhiteRosered

Amazing, isn’t it? All form the talent and hard work of one film-maker!

Quite a legacy.

And it all begins with— education!

For more information on available scholarships and how to apply for them, contact the school of your choice. Be bold. If you intend to make films, its time to be confident and proactive. No student or prospective student who feels he or she may need financial aid should EVER be reluctant to apply for assistance.

In the US, many forms of aid, including Federal Pell grants, Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grants (FSEOG), and the Federal Stafford Loan Program, are available to students who demonstrate financial need (based upon economic criteria and program requirements established by the federal government).

For more info, call the U.S. Department of Education (800-433-3243) or visit its website. Students are encouraged to apply for financial aid electronically – the fastest and most accurate method of completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Educate, educate, educate!

A house in a suburb, a car with the driver’s door open. The first victim you see is half in, half out of the car, multiple wounds. Every cop on the crime scene stops and looks up as you park your car and grab your Crime Scene briefcase. You make your way through the staring eyes of the excited crowd.

You are passed through the police barricades, and the first look confirms what the police dispatcher said. A panicky call to 911 by a male. Gunshots. Silence. No one on the scene can be sure what went down, how or why. They all watch you begin your work.

Three victims, one male, two females. Two guns on the scene, one in the car, another in the hand of the male victim.

The homicide detectives are interviewing the locals, canvassing any potential witnesses. You nod to them, briefly, and do your thing— you dust the scene for latent prints, you take DNA samples, you digitally photograph every angle, you search for hair and fibers, you secure the weapons for x-ray forensics and ballistics, you search for ID, scars, tattoos, birthmarks, and you itemize all data for the most important work of all— computer forensic applications.

You are the brain trust of the investigation. How did you become such a person? Where did you learn crime scene analysis?

The fact is, the criminal investigative detectives studied Forensic Science, the crime lab detectives too, just as you did. You each got the job because you had the degree. You each are on the department’s fast track, because you know what you know, and apply it to fight crime.

Each of you on the crime scene is a different fit, each to a degree program specific to your chosen field. The choice of knowledge is critical to your ultimate success.

For some, there is toxicology, DNA, and other crime lab specialties. Chemistry and biology are fundamental for a bachelor’s degree program with a clinical focus.

Forensic Science field work— such as crime scene investigation— require the kind of knowledge acquired from a degree in forensic science. Studies will necessarily include such courses as advanced math, chemistry, biology, psychology, evidence collection, courtroom presentation and sociology.

Forensic science is a highly competitive job field. The pay is great, and the work is fascinating, never boring, but requires the kind of mindset that is probing, methodical, and resolute. If this is the kind of person you are, consider the field.

Crime is an ever-growing area of human endeavor, and criminal forensic science must keep pace.

There are many fine forensics science programs offered at a number of universities and colleges, whether one near you, or a distance learning institution online. You will find degree programs in Criminal Justice, Law Enforcement, and Criminal Investigation.

Again, this type of degree program prepares students for forensic science field work in a law enforcement setting. You will gain the tools needed to step into a criminal world and master it.

And when you step into a crime scene, you are the brain trust, because you earned it.

You saw green— you studied mountaintop leveling in the coal industry. It was your report that shocked the public and brought the congressional hearings to stop destroying the mountains and filling the valleys with choking acidic waste.

You saw green. You saw a way to help people avoid polluted air, bad air that might sicken them, or aggravate health conditions like asthma, or worse. It was your network of environmental sensors— sensors to help people avoid air pollution hot spots— that provide up-to-the-minute information on outdoor and indoor air quality, based on environmental information collected by hundreds, and eventually thousands, of sensors carried by commuters.

Everywhere, you see green. You spend your days striving to merge the cyber and physical worlds, to create green solutions for healthier people.

You look around your world every day, and see a dozen ways to improve health conditions, to fight pollution hazards and impact problems.

You are an Environmental Scientist.

Or if not, and if healing your world appeals to you deeply, then you could be one.

Earning an Environmental Science degree is definitely a growth profession. One of high critical need.

Environmental scientists conduct research to identify, abate, and eliminate hazards that affect people, wildlife, and their environments. They analyze measurements or observations of air, food, water, and soil to determine the way to clean and preserve the environment.

Understanding the issues involved in protecting the environment—degradation, conservation, recycling, and replenishment—is central to the work of environmental scientists.

They often use this understanding to design and monitor waste disposal sites, preserve water supplies, and reclaim contaminated land and water to comply with Federal environmental regulations. They also write risk assessments, describing the likely affect of construction and other environmental changes; write technical proposals; and give presentations to managers and regulators.

Much job growth will also result from a continued need to monitor the quality of the environment, to interpret the impact of human actions on terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, and to develop strategies for restoring ecosystems.

Also, much environmental study will be needed to help planners develop and construct buildings, transportation corridors, and utilities that protect water resources and reflect efficient and beneficial land use.

Some environmental scientists earn a degree in environmental science.

Many, however, earn degrees in life science, chemistry, geology, geophysics, atmospheric science, or physics and then apply their education to the environment. They often need research or work experience related to environmental science.

Environmental scientists who work on policy formation may help identify ways that human behavior can be modified in the future to avoid such problems as ground-water contamination and depletion of the ozone layer.

Some environmental scientists work in managerial positions, usually after spending some time performing research or learning about environmental laws and regulations.

A bachelor’s degree in environmental science offers an interdisciplinary approach to the natural sciences, with an emphasis on biology, chemistry, and geology.

Undergraduate environmental science majors typically focus on data analysis and physical geography, which are particularly useful in studying pollution abatement, water resources, or ecosystem protection, restoration, and management.

Understanding the geochemistry of inorganic compounds is becoming increasingly important in developing remediation goals. Students interested in working in the environmental or regulatory fields, either in environmental consulting firms or for Federal or State governments, should take courses in hydrology, hazardous-waste management, environmental legislation, chemistry, fluid mechanics, and geologic logging, which is the gathering of geologic data.

An understanding of environmental regulations and government permit issues also is valuable for those planning to work in mining and oil and gas extraction.

About 35 percent of environmental scientists were employed in State and local governments; 21 percent in management, scientific, and technical consulting services; 15 percent in architectural, engineering and related services; and 8 percent in the Federal Government. About 2 percent were self-employed.

A bachelor’s degree in an earth science is adequate for a few entry-level positions, but environmental scientists increasingly need a master’s degree in environmental science, hydrology, or a related natural science.

A master’s degree also is the minimum educational requirement for most entry-level applied research positions in private industry, in State and Federal agencies, and at State geological surveys.

A doctoral degree generally is necessary for college teaching and most research positions. The highest 10 percent earn close to $100,000, yearly, and that is rising.

Environmental science is definitely a growth area. Green science is on the forefront of the global battle against climate change.

If you want to earn a degree promising high salary,and job security (in a profession of great need and high public gratitude), environmental science could be the door to your future.

There’s no better time to get started than right now. The earth cannot wait— it’s people need you!

Information on training and career opportunities for environmental scientists is available from:

• American Geological Institute, 4220 King St., Alexandria, VA 22302. http://www.agiweb.org

In the United States, for example… is the REAL POWER on the street, in the offices, with the U.S. Marshals, the FBI agents, the DEA agents, the Homeland Security officers, the Secret Service agents?

We all know the answer.

The people who investigate, who pursue, who track down, who enforce— they are the power. Without them, laws mean nothing.

And for all its power, the Federal Government depends on so many areas of law enforcement.

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) agents are the Government’s principal investigators, responsible for investigating violations of more than 200 categories of Federal law and conducting sensitive national security investigations.

Agents may conduct surveillance, monitor court-authorized wiretaps, examine business records, investigate white-collar crime, or participate in sensitive undercover assignments. The FBI investigates a wide range of criminal activity, including organized crime, public corruption, financial crime, bank robbery, kidnapping, terrorism, espionage, drug trafficking, and cyber crime.

U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) agents enforce laws and regulations relating to illegal drugs.

U.S. marshals and deputy marshals protect the Federal courts and ensure the effective operation of the judicial system.

Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives agents enforce and investigate violations of Federal firearms and explosives laws, as well as Federal alcohol and tobacco tax regulations.

The U.S. Department of State Bureau of Diplomatic Security special agents are engaged in the battle against terrorism.

The Department of Homeland Security also employs numerous law enforcement officers within several different agencies, including Customs and Border Protection, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and the U.S. Secret Service.

U.S. Border Patrol agents protect more than 8,000 miles of international land and water boundaries. Immigration inspectors interview and examine people seeking entrance to the United States and its territories.

Customs inspectors enforce laws governing imports and exports by inspecting cargo, baggage, and articles worn or carried by people, vessels, vehicles, trains, and aircraft entering or leaving the United States.

Federal Air Marshals provide air security by guarding against attacks targeting U.S. aircraft, passengers, and crews.

U.S. Secret Service special agents and U.S. Secret Service uniformed officers protect the President, Vice President, their immediate families, and other public officials.

Secret Service special agents also investigate counterfeiting, forgery of Government checks or bonds, and fraudulent use of credit cards.

Other Federal agencies employ police and special agents with sworn arrest powers and the authority to carry firearms. These agencies include the Postal Service, the Bureau of Indian Affairs Office of Law Enforcement, the Forest Service, and the National Park Service.

The choices of federal law enforcement are many. How do you get the one you want?

Education is the door. isn’t it always?

To be considered for appointment as an FBI agent, an applicant must be a college graduate and have at least 3 years of professional work experience, or have an advanced degree plus 2 years of professional work experience.

An applicant who meets these criteria must also have one of the following: a college major in accounting, electrical engineering, information technology, or computer science; fluency in a foreign language; a degree from an accredited law school; or 3 years of related full-time work experience. All new FBI agents undergo 18 weeks of training at the FBI Academy on the U.S. Marine Corps base in Quantico, Virginia.

Most other Federal law enforcement agencies require either a bachelor’s degree or related work experience or a combination of the two.

Federal law enforcement agents undergo extensive training, usually at the U.S. Marine Corps base in Quantico, Virginia, or the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center in Glynco, Georgia.

Even fish and game wardens must meet specific requirements. Most States require at least 2 years of college study. Once hired, fish and game wardens attend a training academy lasting from 3 to 12 months, sometimes followed by further training in the field.

Continuing education and training helps police officers, detectives, and special agents improve their job performance. Through police department academies, regional centers for public safety employees established by the States, and Federal agency training centers, instructors provide annual training in self-defense tactics, firearms, use-of-force policies, sensitivity and communications skills, crowd-control techniques, relevant legal developments, and advances in law enforcement equipment.

The level of government spending determines the level of employment for police and detectives. The number of job opportunities, therefore, can vary from year to year and from place to place. Layoffs, on the other hand, are rare because retirements enable most staffing cuts to be handled through attrition. Trained law enforcement officers who lose their jobs because of budget cuts usually have little difficulty finding jobs with other agencies.

Great news— Federal law provides special salary rates to Federal employees who serve in law enforcement.

Additionally, Federal special agents and inspectors receive law enforcement availability pay (LEAP)—equal to 25 percent of the agent’s grade and step—awarded because of the large amount of overtime that these agents are expected to work.

(NOTE: In 2007, FBI agents entered Federal service as GS-10 employees on the pay scale at a base salary of $48,159, yet they earned about $60,199 a year with availability pay. They could advance to the GS-13 grade level in field nonsupervisory assignments at a base salary of $75,414, which was worth $94,268 with availability pay. )

FBI supervisory, management, and executive positions in grades GS-14 and GS-15 paid a base salary of about $89,115 and $104,826 a year, respectively, which amounted to $111,394 or $131,033 per year including availability pay.

So, if the real power in any of the branches of government appeals to you, check out one of the links below. See what educational base you need to get where you want to go.

Special salary rates, exciting work, civil service perks and special benefit packages.

Sound good? It can be dangerous work. And it can require long hours, and assignments far away from family and home.

One thing is certain in an uncertain world— as long as bad people break the law, good people will be needed to enforce the law. And the pay is excellent.

Check out these links, and see which degree opens which door for you—

• Information about qualifications for employment as a FBI Special Agent is available from the nearest State FBI office. The address and phone number are listed in the local telephone directory. http://www.fbi.gov
• Information on career opportunities, qualifications, and training for U.S. Secret Service Special Agents and Uniformed Officers is available from the Secret Service Personnel Division at (202) 406-5800, (888) 813-877, or (888) 813-USSS. http://www.secretservice.gov/join
• Information about qualifications for employment as a DEA Special Agent is available from the nearest DEA office, or call (800) DEA-4288. http://www.usdoj.gov/dea
• Information about career opportunities, qualifications, and training to become a deputy marshal is available from: U.S. Marshals Service, Human Resources Division—Law Enforcement Recruiting, Washington, DC 20530-1000. http://www.usmarshals.gov
• For information on operations and career opportunities in the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, contact: U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Office of Governmental and Public Affairs, 650 Massachusetts Ave., NW., Room 8290, Washington D.C., 20226. http://www.atf.gov
• Information about careers in U.S. Customs and Border Protection is available from: U.S. Customs and Border Protection, 1300 Pennsylvania Ave. NW., Washington, DC 20229. http://www.cbp.gov
• Information about law enforcement agencies within the Department of Homeland Security is available from: U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Washington, DC 20528. http://www.dhs.gov
• To find Federal, State, and local law enforcement job fairs and other recruiting events across the country, contact: National Law Enforcement Recruiters Association, 2045 15th St. North, Suite 210, Arlington, VA 22201. http://www.nlera.org

We are slaves. Every one of us. Absolutely. Slaves to electricity.

When the power goes out we sit in the dark, tormented by sensory deprivation— no TV, no computer, the food spoils.

That’s when we need electricians!

Without electricity, in summer we boil, in winter, we freeze. When the power goes off, we freak— it’s 911 time— PLEASE PLEASE GET OUR POWER BACK ON!

That is why, even in a deep recession, job opportunities should be very good (especially for electricians who have trained for the broadest range of skills.)

With online training, or community college training, no college degree is necessary.

But you may even decide to go further— to go on to earn a Bachelor’s of Science in Electrical Engineering.

Most electricians learn their trade through apprenticeship programs. These programs combine on-the-job training with related classroom instruction.

You learn to bring electricity into homes, businesses, and factories. You learn to install and maintain the wiring, fuses, and other components through which electricity flows. And you can learn to install and maintain electrical machines in factories.

You will learn to read electrical blueprints. Blueprints are technical diagrams that show the locations of circuits, outlets, load centers, panel boards, and other equipment. To ensure public safety, electricians follow the National Electrical Code, and State and local building codes.

You learn to connect all types of wires to circuit breakers, transformers, outlets, or other components. Electricians join the wires in boxes with various specially designed connectors. When installing wiring, electricians use hand tools such as conduit benders, screwdrivers, pliers, knives, hacksaws, and wire strippers, as well as power tools such as drills and saws.

You learn to use ammeters, ohmmeters, voltmeters, oscilloscopes, and other equipment to test connections and ensure the compatibility and safety of components.
Electricians generally focus on either construction or maintenance, although many do both. Electricians specializing in construction primarily install wiring systems into factories, businesses, and new homes. Electricians specializing in maintenance work fix and upgrade existing electrical systems and repair electrical equipment.

Maintenance electricians is an other specialty you can study to learn. You learn to repair or replace electric and electronic equipment when it breaks. You would make needed repairs as quickly as possible in order to minimize inconvenience.

Electricians in large factories usually do maintenance work that is more complex. They may repair motors, transformers, generators, and electronic controllers on machine tools and industrial robots. Electricians also advise management whether continued operation of equipment could be hazardous. When working with complex electronic devices, they may consult with engineers, engineering technicians, line installers and repairers, or industrial machinery mechanics and maintenance workers.

Many electricians learn their trade through apprenticeship learning programs.

These programs combine paid on-the-job training with related classroom instruction.

How high and how fast you want to progress always depends upon how much you have learned, how much mastery of your trade you can command.

Joint training committees made up of local unions of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers and local chapters of the National Electrical Contractors Association; individual electrical contracting companies; or local chapters of the Associated Builders and Contractors and the Independent Electrical Contractors Association usually sponsor apprenticeship programs.

Because of the comprehensive training received, those who complete apprenticeship programs qualify to do both maintenance and construction work. Apprenticeship programs usually last 4 years.

Each year includes at least 144 hours of classroom instruction and 2,000 hours of on-the-job training.

In the classroom, apprentices learn electrical theory, blueprint reading, mathematics, electrical code requirements, and safety and first aid practices. They also may receive specialized training in soldering, communications, fire alarm systems, and cranes and elevators.

On the job, apprentices work under the supervision of experienced electricians. At first, they drill holes, set anchors, and attach conduit. Later, they measure, fabricate, and install conduit and install, connect, and test wiring, outlets, and switches. They also learn to set up and draw diagrams for entire electrical systems. Eventually, they practice and master all of an electrician’s main tasks.

Some people wisely start their classroom training before seeking an apprenticeship.

A number of public and private vocational-technical schools and training academies offer training to become an electrician.

Employers often hire students who complete these programs and usually start them at a more advanced level than those without this training. A few people become electricians by first working as helpers—assisting electricians by setting up job sites, gathering materials, and doing other nonelectrical work—before entering an apprenticeship program. All apprentices need a high school diploma or a General Equivalency Diploma (G.E.D.).

Electricians may also need classes in mathematics because they solve mathematical problems on the job.

Education can continue throughout an electrician’s career. Electricians often complete regular safety programs, manufacturer-specific training, and management training courses.

Classes on installing low-voltage voice, data, and video systems have recently become common as these systems become more prevalent.

Other courses teach electricians how to become contractors.

Most States and localities require electricians to be licensed. Although licensing requirements vary from State to State, electricians usually must pass an examination that tests their knowledge of electrical theory, the National Electrical Code, and local electric and building codes. Experienced electricians periodically take courses offered by their employer or union to learn about changes in the National Electrical Code.

Electrical contractors who do electrical work for the public, as opposed to electricians who work for electrical contractors, often need a special license. In some States, electrical contractors need certification as master electricians. Most States require master electricians to have at least 7 years of experience as an electrician.

Some States require a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field.

In May 2006, median hourly earnings of wage and salary electricians were $20.97. The middle 50 percent earned between $16.07 and $27.71. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $12.76, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $34.95.

Apprentices usually start at between 40 and 50 percent of the rate paid to fully trained electricians, depending on experience. As apprentices become more skilled, they receive periodic pay increases throughout their training.

Some electricians are members of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. Among unions representing maintenance electricians are the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers; the International Union of Electronic, Electrical, Salaried, Machine, and Furniture Workers; the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers; the International Union, United Automobile, Aircraft and Agricultural Implement Workers of America; and the United Steelworkers of America.

Home construction is radically down, but other electrician employment keeps rising.

New technologies also are expected to continue to spur demand for these workers. For example, buildings increasingly need wiring to accommodate computers and telecommunications equipment. Robots and other automated manufacturing systems in factories also will require the installation and maintenance of more complex wiring systems.

As the economy rehabilitates and retrofits older structures, which usually require electrical improvements to meet modern codes, it will create additional jobs.

If hands-on work in an essential field gets your juices flowing, get training as an electrician. Get into an apprenticeship learning program.

Or go all out— earn the Bachelor’s in Electrical Engineering.

Electricity is the river of energy that powers our habitat— we must have it, and that means we must have electricians!

For details about apprenticeships or other work opportunities in this trade, contact the offices of the State employment service, the State apprenticeship agency, local electrical contractors or firms that employ maintenance electricians, or local union-management electrician apprenticeship committees. Apprenticeship information is also available from the U.S. Department of Labor’s toll free helpline:1 (877) 872-5627.

Information also may be available from local chapters of the Independent Electrical Contractors, Inc.; the National Electrical Contractors Association; the Home Builders Institute; the Associated Builders and Contractors; and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers.

For information about union apprenticeship and training programs, contact:

• National Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee, 301 Prince George’s Blvd., Upper Marlboro, MD 20774. http://www.njatc.org
• National Electrical Contractors Association, 3 Metro Center, Suite 1100, Bethesda, MD 20814. http://www.necanet.org
• International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, 1125 15th St. NW., Washington, DC 20005.

For information about independent apprenticeship programs, contact:

• Associated Builders and Contractors, Workforce Development Department, 4250 North Fairfax Dr., 9th Floor, Arlington, VA 22203. http://www.trytools.org
• Independent Electrical Contractors, Inc., 4401 Ford Ave., Suite 1100, Alexandria, VA 22302. http://www.ieci.org
• National Association of Home Builders, Home Builders Institute, 1201 15th St. NW., Washington, DC 20005. http://www.hbi.org
• National Center for Construction Education and Research, 3600 NW 43rd St., Bldg. G, Gainesville, FL 32606. http://www.nccer.org

And it’s not just trucks. These powerful, fuel-efficient, engines are standard in locomotives, and buses. Diesel service technicians and mechanics, including bus and truck mechanics and diesel engine specialists, repair and maintain the diesel engines that power almost all modern transportation equipment.

And the bigger news is this— diesels are going mainstream in light vehicles, including passenger vehicles, pickups, and other work trucks. Diesel tech is constantly lowering pollution levels, with improvements in diesel engines.

Some diesel technicians and mechanics also work on other heavy vehicles and mobile equipment, including bulldozers, cranes, road graders, farm tractors, and combines.

As economies tighten, diesel tech is becoming more and more essential. Why? Diesel-powered engines are more efficient and durable than their gasoline-burning counterparts.

It’s a growth industry with a stable future. That’s why a career in diesel engine repair can offer relatively high wages.

True, the challenge of skilled repair work isn’t for everyone. But the opportunities are amazing, considering a 4-year degree isn’t required.

Formal diesel training takes much less time, and costs much less for tuition. It requires strong aptitude and willingness to work hard and learn. And, you need to love machines.

For best pay and job security, national certification is the recognized standard of achievement for diesel service technicians and mechanics. Continuing education is necessary as well.

Increasingly, diesel technicians must keep learning, and constantly adapt to customers’ needs and new technologies. It’s common for technicians to handle all kinds of repairs, working on a vehicle’s electrical system one day, and doing major engine repairs the next.

Diesel maintenance is becoming increasingly complex, and in modern shops, diesel service technicians use hand-held or laptop computers to diagnose problems and adjust engine functions. Also, diesel service technicians and mechanics must master a variety of computerized testing equipment— to pinpoint and analyze malfunctions in electrical systems and engines.

Employers prefer to hire graduates of formal training programs. Those graduates have most often proven much more able to advance quickly to the journey level of diesel service.

Mechanics without formal training (who learn diesel engine repair through on-the-job training) need 3 to 4 years of experience before becoming journey-level technicians. They often command lower salaries than formally trained mechanics.

High school courses in automotive repair, electronics, English, mathematics, and physics provide a strong educational background for a career as a diesel service technician or mechanic.

A large number of community colleges and trade and vocational schools offer programs in diesel engine repair. These programs usually last from 6 months to 2 years and may lead to a certificate of completion or an associate degree. Some offer about 30 hours per week of hands-on training with equipment; others offer more lab or classroom instruction.

Formal training provides a foundation in the latest diesel technology and instruction in the service and repair of the equipment that technicians will encounter on the job. Training programs also teach technicians to interpret technical manuals and to communicate well with coworkers and customers. Increasingly, employers work closely with representatives of educational programs, providing instructors with the latest equipment, techniques, and tools and offering jobs to graduates.

Employers often send experienced technicians and mechanics to special training classes conducted by manufacturers and vendors, in which workers learn about the latest technology and repair techniques.

Experienced diesel service technicians and mechanics with leadership ability may advance to shop supervisor or service manager, and some open their own repair shops. Technicians and mechanics with sales ability sometimes become sales representatives.

Although national certification is not required for employment, many diesel engine technicians and mechanics find that it increases their ability to advance. Certification by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) is the recognized industry credential for diesel and other automotive service technicians and mechanics.

Diesel service technicians may be certified as master medium/heavy truck technicians, master school bus technicians, or master truck equipment technicians. They may also be certified in specific areas of truck repair, such as drivetrains, brakes, suspension and steering, electrical and electronic systems, or preventive maintenance and inspection. For certification in each area, a technician must pass one or more of the ASE-administered exams and present proof of 2 years of relevant work experience. To remain certified, technicians must be retested every 5 years.

Diesel service technicians and mechanics in the USA held about 275,000 jobs in 2006. These workers were employed in almost every industry, particularly those that use trucks, buses, and equipment to haul, deliver, and transport materials, goods, and people.

Employment of diesel service technicians and mechanics is expected to grow 11 percent from 2006 to 2016, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Additional trucks—and truck repairers—will be needed to keep pace with the increasing volume of freight shipped nationwide.

The future of fossil-fuel mechanics is diesel. Green tech will move forward, with diesel tech always evolving.

The greater durability and economy of the diesel engine (relative to the gasoline engine) will keep increasing the number of buses, trucks, and other vehicles powered by diesel engines.

Nearly every area of the globe employs diesel service technicians and mechanics, where trucking companies, bus lines, and other fleet owners have large operations.

Once you learn, and prove yourself, as a diesel service technician, or mechanic, you’ll have a steady career— repairing trucks, buses, and other diesel-powered equipment not yet invented.

If you love machines, and have a knack for working with tools, diesel mechanic’s could be your way to earn a livelihood theater won’t fade out or become obsolete.

Your investment in formal training— whether trade school, community college, or online— might just be the most important door you can open, right now.

CONTACTS
For general information about a career as a diesel service technician or mechanic, write:

• Association of Diesel Specialists, 10 Laboratory Dr., PO Box 13966, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709. http://www.diesel.org

Information on how to become a certified diesel technician of medium to heavy-duty vehicles or a certified bus technician is available from:

National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), 101 Blue Seal Dr. SE, Suite 101, Leesburg, VA 20175. http://www.asecert.org

For a directory of accredited private trade and technical schools with training programs for diesel service technicians and mechanics, contact:

• Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges of Technology, 2101 Wilson Blvd., Suite 302, Arlington, VA 22201. http://www.accsct.org
• National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation, 101 Blue Seal Dr. SE., Suite 101, Leesburg, VA 20175. http://www.natef.org

NOTES

About 23 percent of diesel service technicians and mechanics are members of labor unions, including the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers; the Amalgamated Transit Union; the International Union, United Automobile, Aerospace and Agricultural Implement Workers of America; the Transport Workers Union of America; the Sheet Metal Workers’ International Association; and the International Brotherhood of Teamsters. Labor unions may provide additional benefits for their members.

More details about work opportunities for diesel service technicians and mechanics may be obtained from local employers such as trucking companies, truck dealers, or buslines; locals of the unions previously mentioned; and local offices of your State employment service. Local State employment service offices also may have information about training programs. State boards of postsecondary career schools have information on licensed schools with training programs for diesel service technicians and mechanics.

Spousal abuse. Child abuse. Job loss, loss of self-esteem. Addiction. Violence. You know the cycles, the syndromes, only too well.

In earning your degree, you studied them all. And every day you learn more. The more you do, the more you know, and the more you know, the more you can help.

When economies are ripped apart, families are torn apart. Family counselors like you have never been more in need.

And you work all the issues— helping solve personal, family relationships, mental health, and career problems— everything that is negative.

Marriage and family therapists like you apply family systems theory, principals and techniques to individuals, families, and couples to resolve emotional conflicts. In doing so, you modify people’s perceptions and behaviors, enhance communication and understanding among family members, and help to prevent family and individual crises.

Sometimes you engage in psychotherapy of a non-medical nature— you make appropriate referrals to psychiatric resources, and even perform research. You teach courses about human development and interpersonal relationships.

Family counseling is very subjective, and emotionally powerful.

Sometimes you set it up with all members of the family unit present. Sometimes you split them up. A family member who suffers from alcoholism or drug addiction might not attend sessions, and might actually be the reason why other family members seek out family counseling.

Part of your goal is to observe interactions between family members. Another part is to observe the perception of non-interacting family members.

You know that if two family members get into an argument in a session, you need to know how the other family members are dealing with the disagreement… or the way in which the two fighting members comport themselves.

In addition to observation, you, the therapist, often helps the family reflect on better ways of communicating with each other.

Your family counseling is part instruction, and part encouragement. You family members new and more positive ways to communicate to replace old, negative communication patterns.

You very often point out how poor communication, fueled with bad emotions, affects the behavior and happiness of children.

You love the way children benefit from the safe forum of a session. With you there, guiding things, the kids get to discuss issues they don’t like— about behavior of caregivers and/or siblings.

You make sure each family member contributes to the conversation. You work hard to identify personal issues of all the family members.

Family counselors like you may work in a private practice, community health organization, or hospital. Many counselors work in an office where they see clients throughout the day. Because privacy is essential for confidential and frank discussions with clients, counselors usually have private offices.

Marriage and family therapists also often work flexible hours— to accommodate families in crisis, or working couples needing evening or weekend appointments.

Education requirements vary, based on State licensure and certification requirements.

A master’s degree is usually required to be licensed as a counselor. Some States require counselors in public employment to have a master’s degree; others accept a bachelor’s degree with appropriate counseling courses.

Courses are often grouped into eight core areas: human growth and development, social and cultural diversity, relationships, group work, career development, assessment, research and program evaluation, and professional identity.

In an accredited master’s degree program, 48 to 60 semester hours of graduate study, including a period of supervised clinical experience in counseling, are required. Often counselors must participate in graduate studies, workshops, and personal studies to maintain their certificates and licenses.

Licensure requirements differ greatly by State, occupational specialty, and work setting. Some counselors elect to be certified by the National Board for Certified Counselors, Inc., which grants a general practice credential of National Certified Counselor.

To be certified, a counselor must hold a master’s degree with a concentration in counseling from a regionally accredited college or university; have at least 2 years of supervised field experience in a counseling setting (graduates from counselor education programs accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs are exempted); provide two professional endorsements, one of which must be from a recent supervisor; and must have a passing score on the board’s examination.

Other counseling organizations also offer certification in particular counseling specialties. Usually, becoming certified is voluntary, but having certification may enhance job prospects.

Some marriage and family therapists, especially those with doctorates in family therapy, become supervisors, teachers, researchers, or advanced clinicians in the discipline. Counselors may also become supervisors or administrators in their agencies.

Some counselors move into research, consulting, or college teaching or go into private or group practice. Some may choose to pursue a doctoral degree to improve their chances for advancement.

A growing number of counselors are self-employed and work in group practices or private practice. New laws allow counselors to be paid for their services by insurance companies.

Overall employment of counselors is expected to increase by 21 percent between 2006 and 2016, which is much faster than the average for all occupations.

However, marriage and family therapists will experience even much higher growth— projected at 30 percent, much faster than the average for all occupations! (This is due in part to an increased recognition of the field. It is more common for people to seek help for their marital and family problems than it was in the past.)

Median annual earnings of wage and salary marriage and family therapists in May 2006 were $43,210.

The middle 50 percent earned between $32,950 and $54,150.

The lowest 10 percent earned less than $25,280, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $69,050.

Median annual earnings were $36,020 in individual and family social services, the industry employing the largest number of marriage and family therapists.

(Self-employed counselors who build up well-established practices, as well as counselors employed in group practices, can have MUCH higher earnings.)

So… do you have a strong desire to help others?

Are you able to inspire respect, trust, and confidence? Do you want to fill a desperate need, to help repair the cracks in our society?

Do you have the high physical and emotional energy necessary, to handle, every day, the stress of so many personal problems?

Then family and marriage counseling and therapy can be your path through life. A well-rewarded career path— of helping others, every day.

Get the degree, gain the educational empowerment… and make it so!

For general information about counseling, as well as information on specialties such as college, mental health, rehabilitation, multicultural, career, marriage and family, and gerontological counseling, contact:

• American Counseling Association, 5999 Stevenson Ave., Alexandria, VA 22304. ttp://www.counseling.org

For information on marriage and family therapists, contact:

• American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy, 112 South Alfred Street, Alexandria, VA 22314 http://www.aamft.org

For information on accredited counseling and related training programs, contact:

• Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs, American Counseling Association, 5999 Stevenson Ave., 4th floor, Alexandria, VA 22304. http://www.cacrep.org

For information on national certification requirements for counselors, contact:

• National Board for Certified Counselors, Inc, 3 Terrace Way, Suite D, Greensboro, NC 27403. http://www.nbcc.org

State departments of education can supply information on colleges and universities offering guidance and counseling training that meets State certification and licensure requirements. State employment service offices have information about job opportunities and entrance requirements for counselors.

Without it there can be no life. Right. Our quote gave it away. Water. And not just water. Fresh clean water.

75% of the Earth is covered with sick, polluted, salt water. And our bodies are made of 75% very select, filtered, fresh water.

The United Nations reports dire shortages. Over 200 U.N. experts predict much worse— that more than half of humanity will be living with water shortages, depleted fisheries and polluted coastlines within 50 years.

Based on data from NASA, the World Health Organization and other agencies, the report finds: the severe water shortages (affecting at least 400 million people today) will affect 4 billion people by 2050.

In the USA, Southwestern states such as Arizona will face other severe freshwater shortages by 2025. Adequate sanitation facilities are lacking for 2.4 billion people, about 40% of humankind.

Yes, we are entering a severe worldwide water crisis. Drought, floods, pollution. Severe, that is, for the lucky areas of the globe. For others? Lethal!

Waste and inadequate management of water are the main culprits behind growing problems, particularly in poverty-ridden regions.

The big cities of industrialized nations have begun feeling the pressure. Without clean water, no city or nation can survive. Rationing is being enforced in many areas of our world.

Who can we turn to to help develop new freshwater resources? Who can lead us to new policies and standards and methods of preserving fresh water supplies and sources?

The science of Hydrology. The hydrologist, who has earned the degree in hydrology.

What is a Hydrologist? Who are these amazing experts who might be able to save us all?

Hydrologists are the scientists and the explorers and the protectors of water.

Hydrologists study the quantity, distribution, circulation, and physical properties of bodies of water. Often, they specialize in either underground water or surface water. They examine the form and intensity of precipitation, its rate of infiltration into the soil, its movement through the Earth, and its return to the ocean and atmosphere.

Hydrologists use their knowledge of the physical makeup and history of the Earth to protect the environment— the properties of underground and surface waters. They locate water and energy resources, and more, they predict water-related geologic hazards.

Hydrologists use sophisticated techniques and instruments. For example, they may use remote sensing technology, data assimilation, and numerical modeling to monitor the change in regional and global water cycles. Some surface-water hydrologists use sensitive stream-measuring devices to assess flow rates and water quality.

Hydrology is knowledge-intensive. Your degree options are many, but you need to build toward the highest level you can earn.

Most Hydrologists need a Master’s degree. A Ph.D. is usually necessary for jobs in college teaching or research.

Students interested in hydrology should take courses in the physical sciences, geophysics, chemistry, engineering science, soil science, mathematics, aquatic biology, atmospheric science, geology, oceanography, hydrogeology, and the management or conservation of water resources.

In some cases, a bachelor’s degree in a hydrologic science is sufficient for positions consulting about water quality or wastewater treatment.

For hydrologists who consult, courses in business, finance, marketing, or economics may be useful. In addition, combining environmental science training with other disciplines such as engineering or business, qualifies these scientists for the widest range of jobs.

Students who have some experience with computer modeling, data analysis and integration, digital mapping, remote sensing, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) will be the most prepared to enter the job market. Familiarity with the Global Positioning System (GPS)—a locator system that uses satellites—is vital.

The American Institute of Hydrology offers certification programs in professional hydrology. Certification may be beneficial for those seeking advancement.

Among hydrologists, 26 percent were employed in architectural, engineering, and related services, and 18 percent worked for management, scientific, and technical consulting services.

In 2006, the Federal Government employed about 28 percent of hydrologists, mostly within the U.S. Department of the Interior for the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and within the U.S. Department of Defense. Another 21 percent worked for State agencies, such as State geological surveys and State departments of conservation. About 2 percent of hydrologists were self-employed, most as consultants to industry or government.

Due to devastating world freshwater shortages, employment of hydrologists is expected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations.

Job growth for hydrologists should be strongest in private-sector consulting firms— partly, from the need to comply with complex environmental laws and regulations, particularly those regarding ground-water decontamination, clean air, and flood control. The worldwide water issue will create increasing pressure and demand for solutions.

Demand for hydrologists should also be strong as the population increases and moves to more environmentally sensitive locations. As people increasingly migrate toward coastal regions, for example, hydrologists will be needed to assess building sites for potential geologic hazards and to mitigate the effects of natural hazards such as floods, landslides, and hurricanes.

Hydrologists also will be needed to study hazardous-waste sites and determine the effect of pollutants on soil and ground water so that engineers can design remediation systems. Increased government regulations, such as those regarding the management of storm water, and issues related to water conservation, deteriorating coastal environments, and rising sea levels also will stimulate employment growth for these workers.

Median annual earnings of hydrologists were $66,260 in 2006, with the middle 50 percent earning between $51,370 and $82,140, the lowest 10 percent earning less than $42,080, and the highest 10 percent earning more than $98,320. In 2007, the Federal Government’s average salary for hydrologists was $82,217.

Around the globe, federal, State, and local governments employ by far the greatest percentage of all Hydrologists.

When thinking about Hydrology, remember, the higher the degree the better— although a bachelor’s degree in an earth science is adequate for a few entry-level jobs, employers prefer a master’s degree. A Ph.D. degree generally is required for research or college teaching positions.

You can get your foot in the door with a Bachelor’s of science, then earn your way into your Master’s while working. The demand for Hydrologists will only keep growing.

Half of all coastal regions, where 1 billion people live, have degraded through overdevelopment or pollution.

Right now, (while disastrous rainfall and floods ruin clean water supplies in some countries), in more than eighty other countries, with forty percent of the world’s population, people are already facing deadly water shortages.

Hydrologists are heavily involved, studying the steep drops in the size of Asia’s Aral Sea, Africa’s Lake Chad and Iraq’s Marshlands, and the deterioration of coral reefs and the rise of coastal waters.

Because of climate changes, the role of Hydrologist is one of ever-increasing importance to all of us.

Developing nations face water shortages, crop failures and conflict over shrinking lakes and rivers if nothing is done to prevent wasteful irrigation and slow evaporation from reservoirs, and drinking-water systems are not repaired.

And for the industrial nations, too, it’s crunch time. Economies can’t be rebuilt without an uninterrupted freshwater supply. And this costs big money, and needs new ideas.

If you want to enter an ever-growing, high-demand field of science (one so critical to world health), a degree in Hydrology would engage you, and reward you, for the rest of your life.

Leonardo ad Vinci said that “Water is the driver of all nature.” Science today knows this to be an absolute.

The survival— of all land life on earth— depends on fresh water.

And fresh water depends upon successful Hydrology.

And many of our future heroes will be those who have earned the degrees in that field, the science of fresh clean water.

For information on careers in hydrology, contact:

• American Institute of Hydrology, 300 Village Green Circle, Suite #201, Smyrna, GA 30080. http://www.aihydro.org

Information on obtaining a position as a hydrologist with the US Federal Government is available from the Office of Personnel Management through USAJOBS, the Federal Government’s official employment information system. This resource for locating and applying for job opportunities can be accessed through the Internet at http://www.usajobs.opm.gov. Or through an interactive voice response telephone system at (703) 724-1850 or TDD (978) 461-8404. (These numbers are not toll free, and charges may result.)

You see the earth with intellectual insights, your own deep-earth knowledge that others are blind to.

You work in storms and ice and desert furnace heat. You climb walls and descend into gorges. You use sophisticated electronics one day, and the next day you dig or chip with a hammer, scoop with a net, and you carry it all in your backpack, or in your Landcruiser.

You may spend considerable time at sea on academic research ships. Often you travel to remote field sites by helicopter, or 4-wheel-drive vehicles. You cover large areas on foot.

You work in foreign countries, sometimes in remote areas and under difficult conditions. Travel often is required to meet with prospective clients or investors. Fieldwork often requires working long hours.

You know how to read the rocks, the sediment, to probe the earth itself with electromagnetic devices the way a hospital probes a human body.

Because you worked hard to earn your degree in Geology and Earth Science, you have the amazing ability to predict catastrophes on a continental scale.

You travel far and wide, to lands across the globe. Adventure is the core nature of your field work.

You are a Geologist.

You study the composition, processes, and history of the Earth. You try to find out how rocks were formed and what has happened to them since their formation. You study the evolution of life by analyzing plant and animal fossils.

You have learned to use the principles of physics, mathematics, and chemistry to study not only the Earth’s surface, but also its internal composition, ground and surface waters, atmosphere, oceans, and magnetic, electrical, and gravitational forces.

Within the two major disciplines of Geology and Geophysics are numerous subspecialties.

For example, petroleum geologists map the subsurface of the ocean or land as they explore the terrain for oil and gas deposits. They use sophisticated instrumentation and computers to interpret geological information.

Engineering geologists apply geologic principles to the fields of civil and environmental engineering, offering advice on major construction projects and assisting in environmental remediation and natural hazard-reduction projects.

Mineralogists analyze and classify minerals and precious stones according to their composition and structure. They study the environment surrounding rocks in order to find new mineral resources.

Sedimentologists study the nature, origin, distribution, and alteration of sediments, such as sand, silt, and mud. These sediments may contain oil, gas, coal, and many other mineral deposits.

Paleontologists study fossils found in geological formations to trace the evolution of plant and animal life and the geologic history of the Earth.

Stratigraphers examine the formation and layering of rocks to understand the environment which formed them.

Volcanologists investigate volcanoes and volcanic phenomena. They strive to predict the potential for future eruptions and hazards to human health and welfare.

Glacial geologists study the physical properties and movement of glaciers and ice sheets.

Geochemists study the nature and distribution of chemical elements in groundwater and earth materials.

Geophysicists specialize in areas such as geodesy, seismology, and magnetic geophysics.

Geodesists study the Earth’s size, shape, gravitational field, tides, polar motion, and rotation.

Seismologists interpret data from seismographs and other geophysical instruments, to detect earthquakes and locate earthquake-related faults.

Geomagnetists measure the Earth’s magnetic field. They employ measurements taken over the past few centuries to devise theoretical models that explain the Earth’s origin.

Paleomagnetists interpret fossil magnetization in rocks and sediments from the continents and oceans to record the spreading of the sea floor, the wandering of the continents, and the many reversals of polarity that the Earth’s magnetic field has undergone through time.

Other Geophysicists study atmospheric sciences and space physics.

Oceanographers use their knowledge of geology and geophysics, in addition to biology and chemistry, to study the world’s oceans and coastal waters. They study the motion and circulation of the ocean waters; the physical and chemical properties of the oceans; and how these properties affect coastal areas, climate, and weather.

Geoscientists in research positions (with the Federal Government or in colleges and universities) frequently are required to design programs and write grant proposals in order to fund their research. Geoscientists in consulting jobs face similar pressures to market their skills and write proposals so that they will have steady work.

Geoscientists can spend a large part of their time in the field, identifying and examining rocks, studying information collected by remote sensing instruments in satellites, conducting geological surveys, constructing field maps, and using instruments to measure the Earth’s gravity and magnetic field. They often perform seismic studies, for example, which involve bouncing energy waves off buried layers of rock, to understand the structure of the subsurface layers.

Many geoscientists work in the petroleum and natural gas industry, an industry that also employs numerous other workers whose jobs deal with the scientific and technical aspects of the exploration and extraction of petroleum and natural gas.

Most Geoscientists need a Master’s degree in Geology or Earth Science. A bachelor’s degree is only adequate for a few entry-level positions.

A Master’s degree is the preferred educational requirement for most entry-level research positions in private industry, Federal agencies, and State geological surveys.

A Ph.D. is necessary for most high-level research and college teaching positions, but it may not be preferred for other jobs.

Many colleges and universities offer a bachelor’s or Master’s or even higher degree in a geoscience.

Traditional geoscience courses emphasizing classical geologic methods and topics (such as mineralogy, petrology, paleontology, stratigraphy, and structural geology) are important for all geoscientists. Because many jobs require foreign travel, knowledge of a second language is becoming increasingly beneficial.

About 24 percent of geoscientists are employed in architectural, engineering, and related services, and 18 percent work for oil and gas extraction companies. In 2006, State agencies such as State geological surveys and State departments of conservation employed about 2,900 geoscientists. Another 2,600 worked for the Federal Government, including geologists, geophysicists, and oceanographers, mostly within the U.S. Department of the Interior for the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and within the U.S. Department of Defense. About 2 percent of geoscientists were self-employed, most as consultants to industry or government.

Although employment growth will vary by industry, overall employment of geoscientists is expected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations.

Graduates with a master’s degree can expect excellent job opportunities; very few geoscientist jobs are available to bachelor’s degree holders. Ph.D.s should face competition for basic research and college teaching jobs.

Median annual earnings of geoscientists were $72,660 in May 2006. The middle 50 percent earned between $51,860 and $100,650; the lowest 10 percent earned less than $39,740, the highest 10 percent more than $135,950.

The petroleum, mineral, and mining industries offer higher salaries, but less job security, than other industries because economic downturns sometimes cause layoffs.

According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers, beginning salary offers in July 2007 for graduates with bachelor’s degrees in geology and related sciences averaged $40,786 a year.

In 2007, the Federal Government’s average salary was $87,392 for geologists, $100,585 for geophysicists, and 93,461 for oceanographers.

Work at remote field sites is common. A master’s degree is the primary educational requirement for most entry-level positions. And a Ph.D. is necessary for most high-level research and college teaching positions, but a master’s degree is preferred for most other geoscience jobs.

Do the rigors of the never-boring outdoor life of a Geologist call to you?

Then go earn the Master’s degree in Earth Science or Geology— one of those degrees is your door to adventure, to excellent salary and foreign travel.

Information on training and career opportunities for geologists is available from either of the following organizations:

• American Association of Petroleum Geologists, P.O. Box 979, Tulsa, OK 74101. http://www.aapg.org
• American Geological Institute, 4220 King St., Alexandria, VA 22302-1502. http://www.agiweb.org

Information on obtaining a position as a geologist, geophysicist, or oceanographer with the Federal Government is available from the Office of Personnel Management through USAJOBS, the Federal Government’s official employment information system. This resource for locating and applying for job opportunities can be accessed through the Internet at http://www.usajobs.opm.gov or through an interactive voice response telephone system at (703) 724-1850 or TDD (978) 461-8404. These numbers are not toll free, and charges may result.

What are the best degree programs to prepare for a life of successful entrepreneurship?

Most new businesses fail because their owners are poorly prepared. They dream, but don’t look far enough beyond their dreams.

Marketing is an essential degree for anyone who will create a business, promote it, and sell its products and/or services.

Revenue is your bottom line. If you can’t develop a revenue flow, nothing else matters. Many great business plans have failed because poor marketing failed the company.

Management is another powerful degree tool, with which to run your own business.

You can develop an amazing revenue flow, and squander it in failed management practices. Many good companies have been run into the ground by poor managers.

Before embarking on your degree of choice, ask yourself these questions, and answer them honestly:

• Will I follow through and earn a degree in marketing or management?
• Am I willing to study for my degree, and then work long hours each day to build my dream?
• Do I have skills in a profession, trade, or hobby that can be converted into a business?
• Does my idea for a business effectively exploit my skills and abilities?
• Am I a good manager, planner, and organizer; controlling my own time and tendencies?
• Can I make my own decisions, or am I more comfortable following the dictates of others?
• Am I willing to postpone my plans in order to get more education, beyond my basic degree, if necessary?
• Does my family support my goals, my dreams?
• Can I afford the financial and emotional risks if the business fails?

If you answer “No” more than once or twice, you may not be cut out for entrepreneurship. (You may simply not want to be stressed by working for others— that is not enough!)

Still, you may still be a great candidate for a marketing or management degree, if you would be more comfortable working for a larger company.

But remember, don’t imagine that you’d be more secure working for others. The risks are still there. The risk of launching your own entrepreneurship is great, but is definitely offset by the risk of job stability when employed by strangers.

Worldwide, significant opportunities for self-employment have long existed in professional specialty occupations. In the USA, the largest concentration of self-employed professionals is among writers, artists, entertainers, therapists, computer programmers and techs, and other highly-skilled operations research occupations.

Each of these professions still must manage its own venture, and each depends upon good marketing to thrive and survive.

Enlisting the aid of experts, especially those who have worked with other business owners, will help you analyze your capabilities. That knowledge should reveal gaps between your expectations and the reality of succeeding with a business idea, allowing you to rethink your plan before your livelihood depends on its success.

If you’re a budding entrepreneur, seek advice and guidance from your own government’s business-promotion offices. You’ll need a wealth of local and national information about starting a business.

In the USA, for instance, free information and resources from the U.S. Small Business Administration might help turn your entrepreneurial dream into a successful reality. To find a regional or local Small Business Association office, call toll free, 1(800)827–5722, or visit www.sba.gov/localresources/index.html.

Wherever you live on this great globe of ours, entrepreneurship— with all its personal downsides of uncertainty and stress— can liberate you from a life of dependence, layoffs, and a host of equally terrifying economic unknowns.

PLAN PLAN PLAN.

LEARN LEARN LEARN.

Get the degree that empowers you for success, and begin to create your life adventure!