About the Visiting Geoscientist Program
The Visiting Geoscientist Program has been set up to give students a chance to meet practicing geoscientists and to discuss geoscience career options. Speakers usually give a technical talk in their area of specialization as well as a presentation on career options and the best way to plan a career path. The speakers welcome an opportunity to discuss the changes which have taken place in the job market as well as present information on the new technical challenges.
Speakers are available to talk about:
- Environmental Geology
- Energy Minerals
- Hydrogeology
- Oil and Gas
- Unconventional Resources
- Climate Change
- and more
The Program was developed in 1974 by AAPG’s academic and industrial advisory committees. More than 200 colleges and universities have participated in the program which continues to grow through the interest and efforts of AAPG and industry.
Objectives of the Program
The primary objective of the program is to provide a vehicle for better communication among students, faculty members, university administrators, and geoscience professionals. A forum such as the VG Program is an effective means of offering first-hand factual discussion on the current energy situation, the role of geology in society, new developments and resources, industrial aid to education, information of mutual concern to academia and industry and most importantly, careers in geoscience. This could include an array of geology fields.
Most VGs are prepared to give a technical talk which will illustrate the application of geology to real world problems. The VG is also prepared to speak on employment in the geosciences industry, or such information may be communicated through question and answer sessions.
Program Funding
The program is fully funded by the AAPG Foundation and administered by AAPG staff with oversight by the VGP Committee.
The Visiting Geoscientist, or his/her employer, pays travel expenses to and from the college or university. The participating university is asked to provide lodging, meals and local transportation. To facilitate visits from the Visiting Geoscientists, this website has the individuals listed according to geographical locations. Since the Visiting Geoscientist or his employer pays travel expenses, the likelihood of acquiring a speaker who is located near your institution is the greatest.