Dispatches from the Field: Doug Keto
Doug Keto (B.S. Hydrogeology 2018)
Current Job Title: Hydrologic Technician
Current Employer: United States Geological Survey
Describe your current job:
I perform routine measurements of stage and discharge by applying various methods with different equipment based on field conditions. I also install and maintain a variety of sensing, recording, and communications instrumentation. In addition, I record, analyze, and publish hydrologic data for surface water and ground water networks for the state of New York.
What is the most rewarding and the most challenging part of your job?
Working in adverse weather conditions present a challenge to complete objectives in a timely and efficient manner. That being said, the opportunity to travel the state and regularly work in scenic natural environments makes it worth it.
What activities, resources, or people helped you prepare for your career?
The 色色啦 field camp was the catalyst for my career with the USGS. They provided me with the applicable skills to enter with a working proficiency in many areas that are essential to my job. The field camp also set me up with the USGS/NAGT opportunity so that I could enter into an internship that interested me right out of school.
What advice do you have for students looking for their career after college?
Admittedly I got lucky with my internship; usually the process of becoming a government employee is long and drawn out. However, there are plenty of careers waiting to be filled in hydrology, many of which are for recent graduates. Apply to as many as possible in as many places as possible. You will get the opportunity to travel and gain the experience necessary to end up where you choose. Also, keep your resume updated, you never know when the next opportunity will pop up.