Part-time and/or volunteering opportunities? 1

[aprilm04]

I wasn't sure where to post this. Long-time visitor, first-time poster.

Long story short, I got a BS/MS in environmental engineering, worked for a couple of years at an engineering consulting firm, and was offered a lucrative position through a prior employer doing something totally unrelated to engineering. (Yes, I sold out for the money.)

That said, I'd like to keep my engineering skills up-to-date if possible. I may have the time for a part-time job, but I'm not sure how many of those exist in engineering, especially considering I only have a couple of years of experience. Are there any volunteering opportunities I could go after? For the record, I'm in Austin.

 

[SlideRuleEra]

1. See if Engineers Without Borders has a local chapter.

2. Some states have a type of emergency response program that require engineers.

3. Perhaps engineering support for a charity such as Habitat For Humanity.

4. Participating, not just monitoring, right here on Engineering Tips can teach you a lot on a wide range of subjects.

http://www.SlideRuleEra.net

http://www.VacuumTubeEra.net

 

[bimr]

In addition to the comments of SlideRuleEra, consider joining the local chapter of NSPE. There are volunteer activities with NSPE in schools and you may be able to network with a firm who needs a part timer.

 

[Lomarandil]

Other engineering volunteer organizations include Bridges to Prosperity, Engineering Ministries International, and a whole slew of small water-based groups (Healing Water Intl, Living Water Intl, Water Mission, etc).

 

[chicopee]

About the National Guards? I am sure that there is a need for environmental engineers. Also most communities have conservation commissions whose members are volunteers and will make surveys of properties with potential environmental issues.

 

[acspain]

Look for a First Robotics Team in your area. There may be a need for mentors and although it is not civil engineering it is still problem solving and you get to promote engineering to high school students.