Forestry Personnel work in all phases of forest science — monitoring and protecting forest areas, harvesting timber, and producing primary and secondary wood products.
Environmental Scientists work in all phases of reclamation, from data gathering and surface mine permitting through environmental monitoring during active mining operation, and reclamation for post-mining use.
Water/Wastewater Personnel work in municipal and industrial water treatment facilities that provide purification of water for human consumption and protection of water resources.

Get Started with a Certificate
Graduates of MECC's Environmental and Forest Science programs receive Associate in Applied Science degrees. Individuals may begin their training in Forestry, Landscape Gardening, Water, and Wastewater certificate programs.

Certification
Graduates of MECC's Water/Wastewater program are prepared to take the state certification exam for water or wastewater operator's license.

Graduates are prepared to take the state certification exam for water or wastewater operator’s license after gaining 6 months experience in a water or wastewater treatment plant.

Employers want personnel who:
• Possess skills in laboratory procedures.
• Possess professional ethics and integrity.
• Possess good communication skills.
• Possess a team-player attitude.

Intern & Apprenticeships
Students acquire on-the-job training through internships and apprenticeships with local agencies.

Employment Outlook
Forest Science students are prepared for employment as forest technicians, lumber graders, timber cruisers, and other technical positions within the forestry and timber industries.
Environmental Science students are prepared for employment as natural resources specialists, land reclamationists, agronomists, extension agents, soil conservationists, and analytical laboratory assistants.
Water/Wastewater students are prepared for entry-level employment in water and sewage treatment plants.

Advancement
With advanced studies and experience,
• Forest Science graduates can advance to positions such as logging foreman, forester, agriculturalist, or laboratory technologist.
• Environmental Science graduates can advance to positions such as reclamation foreman, forester, soil conservation specialist, agriculturalist, or laboratory technologist.
• Water/Wastewater graduates can advance to positions such as water and wastewater operators, site managers, and plant supervisors.

Salary
Salaries range between $18,000 - $30,000, depending upon the position, public or private employment, and job location.

	Teresa Flanary, a graduate of MECC's Environmental Science, Forestry, and Landscape Gardening Programs, is a Watershed Field Coordinator for the Virginia Department of Conservation.
	Donna Lawson, a graduate of MECC's Environmental Science program with a specialization in Water/Wastewater, is Manager of the Bristol-Bluff City Water Treatment Plant.

Professional Organizations
Northwest Partnership for Env. & Tech. Ed.
North American Asso. for Env. Education
Advanced Technology Env. Ed. Center
Virginia Forestry Association
Rural Water Association