The Chartership Bulletin: Winter 2023
Find out why our Fellows value Chartership by hearing two recently Chartered Fellows reflect on their pathway to Chartership
Harriet Wood, geoenvironmental scientist, found the application process useful for evaluating her career
Harriet Wood
FGS CGeol, Senior Geoenvironmental Scientist at Jacobs
I recently became a Chartered Geologist, eight years into my career as a geoenvironmental scientist. Choosing to apply for Chartered Geologist seemed logical to me because an understanding of geological processes and structures is key to building the conceptual site models that underpin the field of contaminated land.
Chartership is important to me because it is a widely recognised standard of competency. Going through the Chartership process has helped me to stay motivated and has developed my geoscience knowledge.
A few years before I submitted my application, I started the process of reviewing the Chartership competency criteria and noting down my relevant experience. My mentor helped me to identify which areas I was strongest in and where I needed to develop my experience to achieve Chartership level. Once I had drafted my application, my mentor was helpful in challenging me to keep it concise and focus on the work that best emphasised my geological knowledge and understanding.
I found the process of applying for Chartership useful for evaluating my career. Reviewing the projects I had done so far helped me identify the aspects of work that I had enjoyed and been challenged most by, as well as those I didn’t find fulfilling. Discussions with my Assessors during the interview also identified other areas that I’d like to learn more about in the future – the learning never stops! Over the next few years, I’m looking forward to taking on a mentoring role myself.
Stephanie Boffey-Rawlings
FGS CGeol, Senior 3D Geological Modeller & Spatial Data Specialist at AtkinsRéalis
I’m a geologist working almost exclusively in 3D ground modelling production and data analysis. I was the first to undertake such a role at AtkinsRéalis, which has otherwise produced many fantastic engineering geologists. However, not fitting the norm resulted in much trepidation for me in deciding to go for Chartership with the Geological Society.
I didn’t know how someone with a non-traditional background could become Chartered. I sought clarification with the Chartership Officer and explored routes to Chartership with my mentor. The feedback and support I received throughout the process made me confident in my submission. I had a challenging yet interesting interview, which was enjoyable as my Assessors shared my enthusiasm for ground modelling. It made me proud of my specialism and feel that what I do matters.
Since achieving Chartership I am now leading the onshore 3D ground modelling capability within the company, which without Chartership I wouldn’t have had the clout or confidence to take on.
I advise anybody who feels that they do not fit the traditional Chartership criteria to reach out and ask questions. You may be the first with your specialism but don’t let that deter you from applying. The message I came away with is that the Society is embracing and accommodating the diverse achievements of its Fellows, as the technological and digital advances in geosciences continue to develop.
For more information on Chartership, contact: Chartership@geolsoc.org.uk. To view the list of recently Chartered Fellows, visit: www.geolsoc.org.uk/CharteredFellows
