Lorrie (Morrison) Bundy
Year Graduated: 
1999

North Coast Team Engineer

US Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)

Job Description

As a Team Engineer, I provide engineering and planning services for conservation projects with agricultural producers and forested landowners in five counties: Del Norte, Humboldt, Shasta, Siskiyou and Trinity. Historically known as the Soil Conservation Service, the NRCS expanded conservation of soil to include water, animals, plants, and air. I work with other disciplines (soil scientists, foresters, biologists, botanists) for a team approach. Our mission is to "help people help the land". I'm lucky to perform my own field surveys, designs, and oversee project construction since each engineer often serves more than one county. The best part is being invited to consult with landowners on private property that most people will never see.

Why did you choose this program?

I started college later than most so financing and location were important considerations. Humboldt State University offered the best reviewed Engineering program at a reasonable price.

How did this program prepare you for your job?

HSU ERE program provided a very complete training for my career in natural resources and engineering. The depth and breath of instruction exceeded what many colleagues received in other college programs. Group projects and presentations were incredibly useful to prepare for real project responsibilities.

What did you enjoy most about the program?

There are so many positive features and benefits provided by the HSU ERE program. The quality of the instruction was exceptional. Every instructor was approachable and offered something different so that all students could make a connection. The selection of courses was outstanding. I routinely apply concepts from every class. Of course, the surrounding landscape and opportunities for recreation in Humboldt County cannot be matched. I was also impressed by the graduation pledge for social and environmental responsibility; that pledge still resonates.

What would you say to prospective students who are thinking about applying to this program?

HSU ERE offers a unique environment for engineering students where class size is small, instructors are accessible, and the class content is thorough. The forested-coastal landscape provides a comforting environment that balances the rigors of the engineering curriculum. After discussions with colleagues, I'm convinced that the HSU ERE program is the best engineering program available.