NAPENews Magazine June 2023 Edition

BEYOND ROCKS AND MINERALS:
HOW GEOSCIENCE GRADUATES CAN EXPLORE
EXCITING CAREER PATHS IN DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY
Geoscience is a field that has been
around for centuries, but with the rise
of digital technology, new career
opportunities are emerging rapidly,
a n d t h e d e m a n d f o r s k i l l e d
professionals in this field is likely to
continue to grow in the coming years.
Powerful tools that were once
accessible to only a few are now
within the grasp of everyday users. In
this article, we will see how
geoscience graduates can take
advantage of this new development
that allows them to combine their
passion for geoscience with cuttingedge
technology.
Technology is actively changing the
geoscience field in so many ways.
One of the ways is by simplifying the
data collection process in terms of
quantity and quality. Additionally,
advances in computing power and
data storage have made it easier for
geoscientists to analyze large and
complex datasets allowing for better
understanding and interpretation.
Every day, new software and
machine learning algorithms are built
to visualize, identify and interpret
patterns and relationships within
spatial data. Geological data is now
better communicated to a wider
audience in an accessible manner all
thanks to the use of interactive maps,
3D models and virtual reality tools.
The automation of several data
processing and analysis routine
tasks has made it easier for
geoscientists to focus on more
complex and challenging tasks
hence saving time and increasing
efficiency. Recent innovations in
geosciences have also brought an
unprecedented level of technological
advancement in the form of new tools
and techniques. For example,
autonomous underwater vehicles
and seafloor mapping technologies
have allowed earth scientists to
explore and map the deep ocean in
astonishing detail.
As technology continues to advance,
it is likely that its intersection with
geosciences will continue to grow,
l e a d i n g t o n e w i n s i g h t s a n d
discoveries in this field. Hence, it is
imperative that young graduates
carve a career path that fully utilizes
the opportunities these new fields
offer.
However, before choosing a career
path, it is important to determine your
interests and strengths. You need to
ask yourself, 'Do I have a knack for
using data to identify patterns and
make predictions?', 'Am I fascinated
by machine learning algorithms?',
'Am I passionate about designing and
developing software solutions?'.
These are all important questions to
ask when exploring career options.
Once you have identified your
interests and strengths, it is important
to research the industry to determine
which areas are in demand. Look for
job postings and read articles on
industry trends to get a sense of
where the industry is headed. These
actions would help throw more light
on the best industry niches to apply
to, pursue a career in or upskill on.
Dear young geoscientist, now that
you have a good understanding of
your interests, strengths and your
industry niche preference, it's time to
explore different career paths that
intersect geoscience and technology.
Such as being a Geospatial Analyst,
S o f t w a r e D e v e l o p e r , D a t a
Geoscientist, Geohazard Analyst,
Environmental Data Scientist or
Machine learning engineer.
The steps below are a suggested
guide on how to do this. First, gain a
s t r o n g u n d e r s t a n d i n g o f t h e
geoscience fundamentals. It is
important to focus on developing a
deep understanding of natural
p r o c e s s e s a n d g e o l o g i c a l
formations, as this knowledge will
form the basis for your use of
t e c h n o l o g y . T h e n , s e e k o u t
opportunities to work on research
projects or internships that allow you
to gain hands-on experience in your
areas of interest.
The next step is to improve your
knowledge of the tools needed for
success in your career of choice.
Languages such as Python, R, and
SQL have become increasingly
important in developing custom
algorithms for visualizing and
interpreting large datasets. You may
consider further education. This
could include a graduate degree in a
related field, such as data science or
software engineering. Alternatively,
you could look into specialized
courses and certifications that can
help you build the necessary skills.
NAPENEWS JUNE 2023 57