Past Graduates - Wendy Stein, Waste Advisor NSW Environment Protection Authority

"Environmental managers trained in geography and environmental science are versatile employees, who bring an understanding of spatial data and specialist analytical skills to the making of informed management decisions"

Since graduating from the School of Geography and Environmental Science, Monash University (Clayton campus) I have been employed in various fields relating to environmental science. Each position has been rewarding and challenging. Skills acquired from my undergraduate studies have been fundamental to my achievements and day-to-day roles as an environmental manager. These skills are essential to the continuing development of my career in the environmental industry.

My graduate employment commenced as a Project Officer with the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service at Kosciuszko National Park and later at Royal National Park. The geographical information systems skills and knowledge I acquired from the School of Geography and Environmental Science enabled me to contribute to development of a Fire Management Plan for Southern Sydney .

Currently I am employed as a Waste Advisor for the NSW Environment Protection Authority ( EPA ). I provide specialist advice to stakeholders (such as government, industry and community) on matters relating to the management of waste organics. My unit, the Technical Advisory Unit, also examines and assesses development applications of large waste facilities such as waste transfer stations, composting facilities and landfills. We also contribute to development of state and federal policy relating to avoiding the generation of waste and the use, recovery and disposal of waste. Prior to my current position I was employed at the EPA to develop and administer environment protection licences that regulate the environmental performance of industry.