In this poster session, student interns will investigate real-world infrastructure projects in contrasting metropolitan regions—such as Phoenix and San Francisco—that share challenges in water systems, energy demand, air quality, data centers, and riparian restoration. 

Students will map the ecosystem of geoscience careers addressing these challenges, including roles for engineers, planners, citizen scientists, field technicians, and regulators. Working with practicing professionals, they will document career trajectories, educational pathways, and non-linear routes into geoscience careers addressing critical infrastructure workforce needs across public, private, and nonprofit sectors. 

Posters examine how advances in GIS and AI transform how data is created, managed, and shared, how it informs planning, design, and operation of sustainable infrastructure and, simultaneously, how these advances are affecting geoscience career options. 

By connecting classroom learning with applied tools and workforce experience, this session advances geoscience education and career awareness while emphasizing community-informed solutions, public trust, and equity-centered environmental stewardship.