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Sustainability Showcase
- Thu, Dec 11, 2025
- 4:00 pm–5:30 pm
CFAC Recital Hall
Sustainability in Action: A Behind-the-Scenes Journey into Real-World Impact
What does a career in sustainability really look like once you step beyond the classroom? This presentation invites students into the day-to-day reality of working in this evolving field. Drawing on experience across industry, government agencies, and watershed stewardship, Cara will share candid stories that reveal how environmental challenges are tackled through science, policy, collaboration, and creativity.
We will explore the practical side of sustainability: navigating regulatory systems, implementing environmental programs, protecting local watersheds, and building partnerships that drive meaningful change at the community level. The presentation highlights how diverse career paths can emerge from a single passion for environmental problem-solving.Whether you’re majoring in environmental science, engineering, policy, or simply curious about purpose-driven work, this talk will offer a clear, inspiring look at how sustainability careers can take shape—and how you can take action toward real-world impact.About the Speaker:Cara (she/her) is the Director of Environmental Programs at Grand Valley Metro Council and works with the Lower Grand River Organization of Watersheds (LGROW) to promote community education and sustainable use of the Grand River and its watershed. Cara has previously used her environmental compliance background to work in private industry, and as a civilian engineer for the US Navy. Cara is a Michigan native and has a B.S. in environmental engineering from Michigan Tech. Cara’s passions include (in no particular order): world travel, stormwater management, baking sourdough, native plants, camping, and the Michigan Tech Huskies.