María Rodriguez wasn't sure what she wanted to do after high school. She enjoyed science classes but hadn't considered how those interests could translate into a career. Then her chemistry teacher mentioned an internship opportunity with a local energy company, and everything changed.
During her summer internship, María worked alongside environmental compliance specialists who monitored air and water quality at production sites. She learned about the sophisticated technology used to minimize environmental impact and saw firsthand how science education applied to real-world challenges. The work combined her interest in chemistry with her concern for environmental protection.
What surprised María most was the collaborative nature of the industry. She worked with geologists, engineers, safety coordinators, and field technicians, all bringing different expertise to solve complex problems. The team environment made her feel valued even as an intern, and mentors took time to explain processes and answer her endless questions.
After completing her internship, María enrolled in New Mexico Tech's petroleum engineering program with a focus on environmental systems. The company that hosted her internship offered a scholarship and promised a position after graduation. She's now in her junior year, working part-time with the same team that first introduced her to the industry.
Looking back, María says the key was being open to possibilities she hadn't considered before. The energy sector offered opportunities that aligned with her values and interests in ways she never expected. Her advice to other students? Don't limit yourself based on preconceptions about what energy careers look like. Explore, ask questions, and discover where your unique talents fit.
