Learn why Anna Lord loves her job as a Principal-Level Applied Geologist at Sandia National Laboratories.
May 9, 2019
minute read time
Anna Lord is a Principal-Level Applied Geologist in the Geotechnology and Engineering Department at Sandia National Laboratories in Albuquerque, NM. She is a licensed Professional Geologist, with Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in earth sciences from Virginia Tech and the University of New Mexico. Anna is the Program Manager in Sandia’s technical advisor role for the Department of Energy’s Strategic Petroleum Reserve.
What inspired you to work in STEM?
I got excited about science, by having awesome science teachers in both middle and high school that provided a lot of hands on opportunities. My 9th grade earth science teacher made learning engaging, by creating classroom experiences that resembled adventures like those imagined in the Magic School Bus book series. She created in-classroom field trips, out of school experiences, and hands on projects. After her class I knew I wanted to be a geologist!
What excites you about your work at the Energy Department?
I get to solve geologic mysteries! I lead a team that is the geotechnical advisor to the U.S. Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR), which is a stockpile of crude oil stored in solution-mined caverns within underground salt formations. I love working on this project, because my work has immediate impact on site operations, it is ever-changing, and dependent on real-time maintenance and operational needs. The work we do helps ensure the SPR is mission ready and capable of delivering oil to the nation at a moment’s notice during an energy crisis.
How can our country engage more women, girls, and other underrepresented groups in STEM?
Engagement starts in the classroom. Focus needs to be placed on integration of subjects, creating project-based learning. In my opinion kids will become more engaged trying to solve an actual problem, using multiple skill sets. It provides a rewarding experience, promotes confidence and team collaboration, which opens a window of future possibilities.
Do you have tips you’d recommend for someone looking to enter your field of work?
One great way to learn more about a field in engineering or science is to pair up with a role model in that field. A role model can be an advocate, someone who can provide support and guidance, and presents opportunities that may not be readily apparent.
When you have free time, what are your hobbies?
In my free time, I am involved with my family in baseball, as a team mom, umpire, and scorekeeper. I enjoy traveling both locally and overseas, which allows me to continually expand my horizon by appreciating the out of doors or learning about other cultures. While at home, I like to exercise my creative streak, by sewing quilts, plush animals, and Halloween costumes. But, the best way to end the day is to escape into a good book!
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